Pretoria: Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has outlined measures aimed at modernising technology systems and tightening accountability across the justice sector. At a briefing on Saturday, the Minister said the seventh administration remains committed to building ‘a modern, transparent and accessible justice system’, where all are equal before the law.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Minister, supported by Deputy Minister Andries Nel and senior departmental officials, delivered a comprehensive update on progress and challenges in court operations, ICT modernisation, infrastructure upgrades, and reforms to judicial governance. She emphasized that strengthening the justice system is central to public trust and constitutional obligations.
The review of the department’s ICT environment revealed 22 vendor contracts that had been poorly managed, with some extended repeatedly without delivering value for money. The Minister highlighted concerns about service p
roviders’ attitudes, noting threats of litigation when contracts end without extension. Operation Vulindlela has deployed a specialist team to stabilize ICT systems at the Master’s Office, focusing on digitalisation and improved service delivery.
Fraud in the Guardian’s Fund, previously costing millions monthly, is showing signs of improvement due to current interventions. The restructuring of the Office of the State Attorney aims to address capacity shortages, with dedicated teams soon handling Constitutional Court and Supreme Court of Appeal matters. Staff burnout is a concern, and efforts to fill critical legal posts are underway.
Disciplinary processes involving senior officials are progressing, with 164 labour relations cases finalized in the 2024/25 financial year. Fifty-four officials were dismissed for corruption and other misconducts, and several cases were referred for criminal investigation. The department is also enhancing prosecutorial and judicial capacity, with 343 aspirant prosecutors comple
ting NPA training and recruitment for additional posts ongoing.
The government reaffirms its commitment to a single, independent judiciary by consolidating court administration under the Office of the Chief Justice. Public-private partnerships are being expanded to modernize court buildings, and infrastructure upgrades are being implemented nationally. Reforms to strengthen Small Claims Courts are underway, increasing their monetary jurisdiction and number of courts.
Marking the 16 Days of Activism campaign, the Minister outlined efforts to combat gender-based violence and femicide, including expanding Thuthuzela Care Centres and maintaining a high conviction rate in sexual offence cases. Prosecutorial directives now require timely consultation with complainants and securing appropriate bail conditions to ensure survivors understand their rights.