Date: 27 Jun 2024

Have Your Say on the Future of South Africa’s Courts!

Your voice matters! We invite you to share your thoughts on the Proposed Rationalisation of the Judicial Establishments of the High Courts.

Your voice matters! We invite you to share your thoughts on the Proposed Rationalisation of the Judicial Establishments of the High Courts. This consultation, open until 30 June 2024, aims to reshape how courts operate to better serve our communities and uphold our constitutional rights.

The Committee on Rationalisation is proposing changes to the structure of High Courts across South Africa. Their goal is to make sure our courts work better for everyone, meeting our legal needs effectively and fairly.

Here are the key changes proposed for each region:

  • Free State: The main court stays in Bloemfontein, with a new branch in Welkom to make court services more accessible.
  • Gauteng: The main courts in Pretoria and Johannesburg will be supported by a new branch in Palm Ridge, helping to manage more cases efficiently.
  • KwaZulu-Natal: Courts in Pietermaritzburg and Durban will have a new branch in Richards Bay, serving a broader area.
  • Limpopo: The court in Lephalale will close, streamlining services to improve overall efficiency.
    Northern Cape: The main court remains in Kimberley, with a new branch planned for Upington to enhance access to justice in remote areas.
  • North West: Mafikeng remains the main court, with a new branch in Rustenburg to handle growing case numbers.
  • Western Cape: The main court stays in Cape Town, with a new branch in Thembalethu/George to bring court services closer to more people.

Why Your Input Is Crucial

At DearSA, we believe in the power of open discussions to shape a better society. Your views are essential to making sure these changes work for everyone. By participating, you help ensure that our judicial system is effective and fair for all South Africans.

Get Involved

Visit our website to read the full proposal, participate and share your thoughts before 30 June 2024. This is your chance to be part of a vital conversation about the future of our courts.

The way our courts work affects everyone in South Africa. We invite you to share your thoughts and suggestions on how to improve the system, including any concerns you may have. Your input is important to us.

Why Support Matters

DearSA is a non-profit organisation that relies on community support, not government funding. “Every bit of feedback helps us create a judicial system that serves you better,” says Nolu Maki, spokesperson for DearSA. 
 
How to Participate

  • Read the Proposal: Click here to view the full report on the proposed changes.
  • Submit Feedback: Share your thoughts here.
  • Spread the Word: Encourage others to get involved and share their views.

“We value the input of all South Africans in this important process and look forward to your contributions in shaping a more effective and accessible judicial system,” Maki adds.

 
Dear South Africa is a non-profit platform that allows the public to co-shape government policies, amendments, and proposals. The organisation has run many successful campaigns and has amassed a participant network of over 1.1 million individuals across the country and beyond.

Support us

Become a Member today and help support us to reach more people