Cape Town – Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng says judges should do everything within their power to ensure that they uphold judicial independence under any circumstances.
The Chief Justice delivered a closing address at the 4th Congress of the Conference of Constitutional Jurisdictions of Africa (CCJA) on Wednesday, which took place from 24 April at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
“Let us avoid anything that has the ability to compromise the independence of the judiciary,” the Chief Justice said.
Chief Justice Mogoeng was on the night elected as the incoming President of the continental body for the next two years, a position that was previously held by Marie Madeleine Mborantsuo of Gabon.
“It is with a deep sense of humility and immeasurable gratitude that I assume the responsibility of being President of the Conference of Constitutions of Jurisdictions of Africa. I do so not naïve about the responsibilities and challenges that this by extension throws my way,” Chief Justice Mogoeng said.
The CCJA is an independent institution established by Constitutional Judiciaries in Africa to ensure that the Judiciary in each member state supports and deepens democracy by upholding constitutionalism and the rule of law.
The conference attracted about 200 judges from 35 countries within the continent.
President Jacob Zuma has congratulated Chief Justice Mogoeng on his appointment as President of the CCJA.
“We wish to heartily congratulate the Chief Justice on his election and wish him all the best in his new responsibilities. This election to such a key continental position demonstrates confidence and high regard for South Africa’s judiciary on the continent. This is a great honour for our country, which happened on the eve of Freedom Day and just a few days before the beginning of Africa Month,” said President Zuma. – SAnews.gov.za
