Tomorrow, Friday 28 February 2025, is deadline day for the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, to release the list of convicted sexual offenders as per her public commitment to do so by the end of February.
For over two years, BOSA has actively campaigned for the National Register for Sexual Offenders (NRSO) to be made public. Our petition, which has garnered nearly 20,000 signatures, is proof of the widespread demand for transparency in protecting our communities from sexual predators.
We are now putting the Minister on notice: she has exactly 24 hours to make good on her promise and release the list to the public. Failure to do so will leave BOSA with no choice but to embark on mass public action to demand accountability and justice.
To date the Minister has been coy about the entire process. BOSA Deputy Leader Nobuntu Hlazo-Webster MP has since submitted the following written parliamentary question to the Justice Minister, which has yet to be answered:
As per her announcement on making public the list of convicted sexual offenders and GBV perpetrators,
(1) is this list in question the National Register of Sexual Offenders (NRSO) as per the Sexual Offences and Related Matters Amendment Act?
(2) How will the list be made publicly accessible?
(3) Which specific crimes will be covered by this list? And
(4) How many people will be on the list on the date of publishing.
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.
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 GBV and sexual violence.
Media Statement by
Roger Solomons: BOSA Acting Spokesperson
Thursday 27 February 2025
Media Enquiries:
Roger Solomons – BOSA Acting Spokesperson – 072 299 3551