Following Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi’s failure to make public the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO) as promised by the end of February, BOSA is today invoking the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) to request access to the register under the “public interest” override in Section 46 of the Act.
Build One South Africa (BOSA) believes this is the next required step to ensure accountability in the fight against sexual violence as the government’s continued secrecy on this matter is fast becoming unacceptable.
First, the Minister of Justice committed to releasing the register; now, she has backtracked, claiming she is seeking legal advice. This sudden reversal raises serious concerns: Does the register even exist? Is it outdated? Or is the Ministry hiding names it does not want the public to see?
BOSA will not allow this process to be delayed. As a party dedicated to transparency and accountability, we are exercising oversight by using PAIA to demand answers.
The “public interest” override in PAIA allows for the release of otherwise protected information if:
“The public interest in disclosure outweighs the harm in releasing the information.”
We are clear on this matter: The public interest in protecting future victims from sexual abuse does outweigh protecting the privacy of convicted sexual offenders.
Given the alarming rates of gender-based violence and sexual crimes in South Africa, the need for public access to this information cannot be overstated.
Making the NRSO public will serve as a strong deterrent against sexual crimes and ensure that those who violate the rights and dignity of others can no longer hide in the shadows.
Our communities deserve to know who these offenders are—those who roam our streets, enter our workplaces, and infiltrate our homes, often putting our children at risk.
For over two years, BOSA has campaigned for the NRSO to be made public—a call that has resonated with thousands of South Africans. Our petition, signed by nearly 20,000 citizens, reflects the urgency of ensuring communities are informed and protected from sexual predators.
BOSA remains committed to ensuring that the government follows through on its promises. We call on all South Africans to stand with us in demanding action.
We will not accept further delays, and we will not allow empty promises to hinder the fight against gender-based violence and sexual violence.
Media Advisory by
Roger Solomons: BOSA Acting Spokesperson
Wednesday 05 March 2025
Media Enquiries:
Roger Solomons – BOSA Acting Spokesperson – 072 299 3551