Tshwane: The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DJCOD) has successfully concluded its two-day inaugural Justice Forum, aimed at creating an environment of collaborative governance and unified service delivery in the department. Held at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College in Tshwane, the forum brought together senior leaders from across the department, including Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, Deputy Minister Andries Nel, the Director-General, Advocate Doctor Mashabane, executive management, provincial heads, and senior officials from the Master’s and State Attorney’s Offices.
According to South African Government News Agency, in her closing remarks, Kubayi reaffirmed the department’s commitment to strengthening South Africa’s justice system through decisive leadership, institutional reform, and improved service delivery. Kubayi emphasized the importance of functional systems, responsive leadership, and a collaborative approach to restore public confidence and deliver accessible, efficient justice services.
The department noted that a central theme for the forum was the modernisation and reform of the Guardian’s Fund. The Master’s and State Attorney’s Offices continue to experience systemic inefficiencies, including backlogs, outdated processes, and capacity shortfalls. Kubayi confirmed that comprehensive turnaround strategies will be implemented across the country, with a strong focus on digital transformation, leadership accountability, and service excellence.
The forum acknowledged the need to restore public confidence in the Guardian’s Fund, which has been affected by cyber-related incidents in recent years. Measures to strengthen security, improve oversight, and digitise operations to safeguard the integrity of the fund were agreed upon during the meeting.
A report presented to the forum highlighted challenges at the State Attorney’s Office, including high staff turnover and escalating litigation costs. In response, the forum adopted a resolution to implement a centralised, streamlined organisational model supported by improved staffing structures, better use of technology, and tighter controls on the briefing of legal practitioners. The Office of the Solicitor-General will be fully capacitated to ensure effective coordination of litigation on behalf of the State.
On human resources, the forum resolved to reinforce a culture of ethical leadership and accountability across the department. The forum endorsed the centralisation of senior management appointments, updates to human resource policies, and the strengthening of provincial execution committees. In alignment with national anti-corruption efforts, the Forum welcomed the introduction of lifestyle audits for senior managers, following a presentation by the Head of the Special Investigating Unit, Advocate Andy Mothibi.
The forum concluded with a clear set of resolutions for the 2025/2026 financial year, laying a strong foundation for a justice system that is accessible, people-centred, and grounded in integrity.