The Western Cape’s people deserve safety and justice. Yet despite being home to only a fraction of South Africa’s population, the province suffers some of the country’s worst violence — and nearly nine out of ten gang-related murders nationwide. This is not inevitable. It is the result of failed national control and the collapse of accountability.
CapeXit’s new policy proposal, No Mercy for Criminals – A Safer Cape for All, sets out how an independent Cape Republic can take back its streets through local control, modern policing, and fair but firm justice. It combines global lessons — from El Salvador’s success against gangs to New York’s “Broken Windows” community policing — adapted to Cape values of legality, transparency, and compassion.
The plan rests on three pillars:
Enforce – a professional Cape Police Service with rapid-response units, body-cams, and strict anti-gang measures;
Reform – fast-track courts, mandatory sentencing for serious crime, and a Victims’ Rights Charter ensuring restitution and dignity; and
Prevent – youth diversion, neighbourhood safety zones, and reinvestment of seized criminal assets into community upliftment.
A Ministry of Justice and Public Protection will coordinate these efforts under strong civilian oversight and open data reporting. Technology, intelligence, and ethics will work hand-in-hand to deliver results people can see and trust.
This policy is now open for public input. CapeXit invites every resident, expert, and community leader to share ideas, concerns, and improvements. Together, we can design a justice system that protects the innocent, deters the guilty, and restores hope.
🗳️ Have your say by November 17: https://forms.gle/EFA18TAcZ31fVRv38
📄 Read the full explainer (PDF) → https://capexit.org/wp-content/uploads/No-Mercy-for-Criminals-Draft-Policy-Paper-V.1.0.pdf
Dr. Joan Swart has a PsyD Forensic Psychology, an MBA and a Masters in Military Studies. She is a director of CapeXit NPO.
