South Africa's Criminal Procedure Act currently under review
Last week the South African Law Reform Commission published four discussion proposals for review.
Crime scene tape
JOHANNESBURG -The Criminal Procedure Act is currently under review, and proposals are being made to strengthen certain aspects of the act to ensure a more effective and victim-orientated criminal justice system.
Last week, the South African Law Reform Commission published four discussion proposals for review.
The proposals aim to deal with arrest, bail, alternative dispute resolution and victim-centric reform.
Four years ago, the South African Law Reform Commission was tasked with reviewing the criminal justice system.
READ: Deputy Justice Minister Nel initiates review of Criminal Procedure Act
Now, certain aspects of the review process have been published for public comment - with the view of amending the act.
The proposals include - among others - to review circumstances when police officers may use deadly force.
In terms of bail, the proposal looks to strengthen consultations with victims of crimes, emphasising a victim must be informed of bail proceedings and outcome thereof, as well as their views on whether they require protection.
"We must transform our criminal justice system, including the Criminal Procedure Act, to be more effective, more efficient, integrated, victim-centered and in keeping with our constitution," said Deputy Justice Minister Andries Nel.
The public has until 31 March to submit their comments on the review proposals.