Evaluating the decentralisation of SAPS policing

THE discussion around the decentralisation of the SAPS has brought to the forefront a complex array of arguments and constitutional considerations.

- TASCHICA PILLAY

As policymakers contemplate potential reforms, the need for a thorough examination of existing structures, stakeholder perspectives, and legislative frameworks becomes paramount.

Dr Sandy Africa, director of the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection (Mistra) emphasised the necessity of scrutinising the constitutional implications of any proposed decentralisation.

“The South African Constitution explicitly says that there is one national police service. This is carried through in the SA Police Service Act which aligns the role of the Provincial Commissioners with that of the national police commissioner.

“However, it only makes sense to periodically evaluate whether the constitutional and legislative arrangements serve the purpose of effective law enforcement and crime prevention, but they are not decisions to be taken lightly and should not be taken to serve partisan political agendas.