Cape town: A new criminal justice reform initiative is set to target organized crime and corruption in South Africa, as announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday night. The initiative aims to tackle the illicit firearms trade and will employ a dedicated team within the Presidency to ensure reforms are comprehensively implemented.
According to South African Government News Agency, the President emphasized the strengthening of bodies such as the Special Investigating Unit, the National Prosecuting Authority, and the Hawks to intensify the fight against corruption. The government is also considering the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council's recommendation to establish a permanent, independent anti-corruption body.
President Ramaphosa addressed the need for better protection for whistle-blowers through the introduction of the Whistle-Blower Protection Bill in Parliament. The bill seeks to criminalize retaliation against whistle-blowers and provide them with necessary support.
The reform will also focus on restructuring the government's procurement system to prevent corruption. The Auditor General has reported that procurement is a major source of corruption. Measures will include the use of technology and the implementation of new Public Procurement Act regulations by mid-2026.
President Ramaphosa highlighted the findings of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which exposed corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS) and metro police departments. He affirmed that corruption would not be tolerated and emphasized the importance of an ethical police service.
The SAPS has established a task team to expedite investigations from the commission, and the State Security Agency will re-vet senior police management, including lifestyle audits. President Ramaphosa assured that the recommendations from the Madlanga Commission would drive significant reforms in the criminal justice system.
In a related development, the President announced the deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to assist police in tackling gang violence and illegal mining in the Western Cape and Gauteng. A tactical plan is being developed to determine the precise deployment of security forces.
The President also outlined an integrated strategy to address crime's root causes, including better street lighting and access to social services. Efforts to tackle gun crime will include streamlining firearms legislation and regulations.
To further enhance crime-fighting capabilities, the government plans to recruit 5,500 additional police officers this year, complementing the 20,000 new officers announced last year.
