The government is to increase its safety and security budget by R10-billion over the next three years as South Africa moves to strengthen its police force and judiciary.

South Africa's Constitution, built on an acute awareness of the injustices of the country's past, is widely regarded as the most progressive in the world, with a Bill of Rights second to none.

South Africa has an independent judiciary, subject only to the Constitution and the law. Find out more about how the wheels of justice turn in SA.

A statutory body established in terms of the Electoral Commission Act to promote and safeguard democracy in South Africa.

The Public Protector was set up in terms of South Africa's Constitution to investigate complaints against government agencies or officials. Find out how the process works, who and what the Public Protector can investigate, and how to lay a complaint.

With 16 parties represented in parliament, South Africa has a vibrant multiparty political system. The African National Congress is in the majority, but opposition parties remain robust and vocal. Here's a quick rundown of South African party politics.