Programme of Action of the CJS

[Last Updated : 28 January 2009]

The Main Components of the Improvement of the Criminal Justice System Programme of Action:

1. Adopt a single vision and mission for the CJS leading to a single set of objectives, priorities and performance measurement targets for the CJS by the JCPS cluster.
2. Establish through legislation or by protocol, a new and realigned, single CJS co-ordinating and management structure that flows in a seamless manner from the Cabinet to each court and appoint a person from the Executive as Head of the CJS structure with co-ordination and management functions (not Executive powers).
3. Develop practical and short-term proposals to improve the performance of courts, initially focusing on the Regional Courts, where high-levels of backlog are hampering the efficiency and effectiveness of the system.
4. Identify key areas within the component parts of the CJS that contribute negatively to the overall system’s performance and put measures in place to correct shortcomings, as well as remove constraints, inhibitors and dependencies, so that all the component parts are brought to a point where they function together harmoniously.
5. Establish an integrated and seamless National CJS Information System
   (i.e., IT Infrastructure and Databases) with information and systems that are seamless, scientifically and technically robust, and which inform decision-making processes and facilitate the development of more informed strategies, and plans.
6. Implement a programme to modernise the CJS through applying technological solutions that will serve to manage day-to-day operations more effectively, reduce costs and eliminate waste and paper-intensive systems. 
7. Involve the population at large in the fight against crime by communicating changes to the CPF regime, by linking the role of the SAPS to, for example, parole boards, and by ensuring that the system has the necessary financial and administrative infrastructure, resources and personnel to function effectively and efficiently.

The above 7 far-reaching programme components are commonly referred to as the 7-Point Plan.