Pretoria: The role played by court interpreters in facilitating access to justice for the entire nation cannot be overstated, says Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi. “Court interpreters are not merely linguistic facilitators. They are guardians of constitutional rights, ensuring that every person, regardless of language, background or ability, has meaningful access to justice,” Kubayi said.
According to South African Government News Agency, Kubayi spoke at the launch of the Court Interpreters’ Robes Programme at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre in Pretoria on Tuesday, noting that it was a pioneering initiative on a global scale. This initiative is aimed at professionalising the role of interpreters and affirming their status as critical enablers of justice. The ceremonial robing of court interpreters marks a transformative moment in the justice system, underscoring their essential role.
Kubayi emphasized that universal access to justice can only be attained when every citizen in the country can access justice and participate in court processes in the language of their choice. She highlighted that language interpretation in courts, if properly utilised, can transform language diversity from being a barrier to becoming an instrument for empowerment, social cohesion, and the creation of a more just society. She stressed that court interpreting must reflect a shift from language interpretation under the apartheid system to one that embraces human rights and diversity.
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, through Justice College, will continue to provide foundational training for interpreters, Kubayi stated. She explained that the government’s decision to robe court interpreters is motivated by the recognition of their responsibilities as language interpreters in the courts. Kubayi urged interpreters to carry out their tasks professionally, ethically, and without prejudice, especially given the challenge of huge case backlogs. She reminded them that they are at the forefront of the judiciary and the justice system and should embody the Batho Pele principles of public service.
As part of the launch, court interpreters will adopt a new professional standard that includes the wearing of official gowns and adhering to a black-and-white dress code.