Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has conceded the unlawfulness of the Crime Prevention Wardens program and announced its disbandment. The Democratic Alliance plans to table a motion of no confidence against him for the project's mishandling. Opposition parties and experts view the initiative as a failed and costly experiment.
The Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens, known as amaPanyaza, were established in early 2023 to bolster visible policing in townships, informal settlements, and hostels. From the outset, the program faced legal scrutiny. In August 2023, reports highlighted that assigning law enforcement functions to these wardens required permission from the justice minister, which was not initially obtained. Peace officer status was granted only in December 2023, but criticisms persisted.
A report released this week by Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka concluded that the wardens' deployment violated sections 41(1)(f) and (g) of the Constitution, as provinces lack policing powers under section 206(4). Their operations alongside the South African Police Service were deemed irregular and unlawful. Hours before the report's release, Lesufi announced the disbandment of the 8,800 wardens over 36 months, with qualified members integrating into the Gauteng Traffic Police and others reassigned to municipalities or departments.
Lesufi defended the wardens, stating they 'played a critical role in visible policing in the Johannesburg CBD, major events and township areas.' However, DA Gauteng leader Solly Msimanga announced on 23 October 2025: 'The DA will table a motion of no confidence against Premier Lesufi for his reckless and irresponsible implementation of the failed amaPanyaza project.' The motion was submitted that day, with tabling expected within two weeks. Msimanga estimated costs exceeding R1.5 billion, including salaries, uniforms, vehicles, training, and pending lawsuits.
The DA called the program a 'political gimmick' for the 2024 elections, accusing Lesufi of exploiting job-seekers. ActionSA described the disbandment as an admission of failure in curbing crime, vowing to monitor the transition. The EFF demanded accountability for wasted funds, labeling it a 'reckless, illegal and politically motivated experiment.'
Policing expert David Bruce acknowledged the idea's merit in supporting safety in underserved areas but criticized the lack of legal clarity, infrastructure, and realistic planning. He suggested models like UK police community support officers or Cape Town's Law Enforcement Advancement Programme for future efforts.