Johannesburg: Chief Justice Mandisa Maya has urged judiciaries around the globe to 'step forward and affirm the enduring power of the law' in an ever increasingly challenging environment. The Chief Justice was addressing the J20 Summit of Constitutional and Supreme Court leaders in Johannesburg. The summit is held under the engagements of the Group of 20 (G20), which South Africa is chairing.
According to South African Government News Agency, the summit is more than a mere diplomatic courtesy. It is described as a historical convergence, a deliberate and necessary assembly of the judicial guardians of the free world at a time when the pillars of democracy and human dignity are under strain. Chief Justice Maya emphasized the necessity for the stewards of justice to affirm the enduring power of the law. She highlighted the judiciary as the 'sentinel of society', a neutral ground where the powerful are held accountable and the voiceless are heard.
Chief Justice Maya pointed out that the judiciary is entrusted with interpreting both the letter and the spirit of the law, upholding fairness, equity, and truth. She noted the challenges facing the judiciary, with courtrooms now addressing cases that involve interests across continents and digital realm disputes. The judiciary's role in adapting to these evolving challenges is crucial.
At the summit, Maya discussed South Africa's journey towards full judicial independence. She expressed the importance of this independence for maintaining an impartial judicial process. Currently, the Executive retains control over the budget and financial management of the Judiciary, affecting court administration, including the appointment of magistrates and support staff, and the condition of court facilities.
Chief Justice Maya shared insights from a meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa and the national executive, which focused on reforms to achieve full judicial independence. The cooperation among government branches, while respecting boundaries, was emphasized as essential for upholding the Constitution. Maya announced that South Africa is on the path to full institutional independence, with technical teams working to make this constitutional imperative a reality.