Reducing judicial and prosecutorial case backlog

We have a very backward unwritten prosecutorial policy that clings to the false principle that the justice is only achieved when an offender is behind bars. We cannot deal with prosecutions and case backlog that way.

Progressive nations have realised the folly of such flawed thinking. The end of every prosecution must be to ensure that the attention of the defaulter is focused on his wrong, often through an appropriate and condign sentence, and that repair work is done to complainants to the extent that the harm or damage can be fixed.

I work the courts almost literally everyday. It would not surprise you to know that cases as old as 10 years are still being prosecuted at enormous public expense, all because the prosecution is focused on achieving a possible prison term. The DPP has wide powers in terms of when, if at all, to plea bargain or not to prosecute.

Editor's Comment
Bulela Ditswe entry fee could hamper broke talent

The fees have been doubled from the previous amounts and raise concerns about political participation accessibility and democratic representation principles.This significant fee increase prompts questions regarding its impact on grassroots democracy.On one hand, the fees act as a filter, ensuring only serious contenders enter the race, potentially reducing frivolous candidacies and generating crucial campaign funds. The BDP argues that aspiring...

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