Government has noted the Constitutional Court judgment in the matter and is studying it to enable it to take steps to amend the legislation in accordance with the findings of the court. Government has 18 months within which to do so.
We have noted that the Constitutional Court has indicated that the “Hawks” are not sufficiently independent and that the legislation must be changed to give it greater independence and to shield it from possible interference. The legislation enacted by Parliament was intended to do so. However, steps will be taken to give effect to this judgment.
The judgment does not in any way affect the work which the Police unit, Directorate for Priority Crime investigation has done and continues to do. In addition, Parliament has been vindicated as the court did not find anything irrational in how it processed the legislation.
Enquiries:
Mr Tlali Tlali (Spokesperson)
Cell: 082 3333 880
E-mail: ttlali@justice.gov.za
Source: Department of Justice and Constitutional Development
