The introduction of the Batho Pele principles in 1997 as a policy and legislative framework that would revolutionise public service delivery in South Africa was seen as an instrument that would bring about efficiency and effectiveness in the provisioning of services. The eight principles are based on the ideals of the Constitution that seek to promote and maintain high standards of professional ethics and ensure that citizens are encouraged to participate in policy making and that the public administration is accountable transparent and development-oriented.