Justice minister vows to overhaul Gauteng court
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has committed to taking decisive action to transform the Palm Ridge Magistrates’ Court after concluding her oversight visit.
Kubayi expressed serious concerns about the state of the court, reflecting broader issues within South Africa's justice system, including overcrowding, outdated infrastructure, case backlogs, resource shortages, security risks, limited access to justice, and slow technological advancements, all impeding the delivery of justice.
During her visit, Kubayi engaged with community members, court staff, and officials, who highlighted alarming problems, such as procedural violations, poor service delivery, and a lack of accountability.
Frustrated citizens reported hasty justice dispensation and violations of victims' rights.
Allegations also surfaced about magistrates intimidating victims, excluding them from key discussions, and making questionable bail decisions.
The minister expressed particular concern over the mishandling of gender-based violence (GBV) case files, deeming the situation unacceptable and calling for immediate corrective actions.
"The weaknesses I witnessed today confirm the complaints we have been receiving. I personally instructed that certain issues be addressed before I leave, and I will ensure follow-ups are made," Kubayi stated.
Other issues raised included poor staff attitudes, disregard for court procedures, and systemic inefficiencies.
The minister noted that some of these problems stemmed from inadequate support from the national office, exacerbating frustrations at the local court level.
She also raised concerns about security lapses, citing an incident where crucial surveillance footage was unavailable due to flawed data retention policies.
Kubayi emphasized the need for urgent reforms, including stronger oversight, better management, and accountability for failures.
She reassured the public that she would uphold the separation of powers and judicial independence.
“The justice system cannot be a place where people are forced to ‘buy justice.’ That is a direct violation of our Constitution. I take full responsibility and will not stand idly by while citizens suffer at the hands of a broken system,” she vowed.
The minister apologized to the affected citizens and stakeholders, acknowledging system failures and assuring them that immediate interventions and changes would be made at Palm Ridge Magistrates’ Court.
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