Restorative justice and political accountability

THE recent national dialogue engagements between citizens and members of Parliament have forced many to really scrutinise and critically evaluate the varying types of inequality at play within South Africa.

- DR SHEETAL BHOOLA

Years have gone by during which we have advocated for restorative and retributive justice, and we are yet to see its widespread positive impact, which should have driven political accountability in South Africa.

The democratic era should have brought restorative and retributive justice to the fore and informed people of how to comprehend the injustices of the past, what harm was done, and how to manage the pain that emerged from that, and to educate people on the importance of political accountability.

If our politicians themselves do not see the value and the need to be transparent and accountable, one ponders as to what will encourage retributive justice?

Activist Sihle Lubisi vocalised at the gathering that his voice and opinion should be valued as he is a representative of what South Africans experience in their daily lives.

The differences in lifestyles between politicians and citizens were also discussed, where one delegate clearly stipulated how politicians have bodyguards to protect them and ensure their safety, while citizens have to manage to safeguard themselves from violence and criminal activities independently every day.

Delegates spoke of young children still being raped, and the increasing number of life-threatening crimes that have become prevalent, leading to such difficult and unsafe living environments for people.