The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has paid tribute to Navanethem “Navi” Pillay after she was awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, describing the achievement as exceptional and a proud moment not only for South Africa but also for the African continent.
“As a nation, we are proud to celebrate our own, who continues to fly the South African flag high. By awarding her this year’s Nobel Peace Prize, the Nobel committee has reaffirmed that respect for international law, defence of human rights and creating a peaceful world are values worth fighting for, especially in the current global environment,” Kubayi said.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee announced the award in Oslo, Norway, on Friday, recognising Pillay’s efforts to promote peace and uphold international law.
As one of the world’s most prestigious honours, the award recognises her lifetime of courageous service to justice and human dignity.
Pillay represented President Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists before becoming the first non-white woman to be appointed to South Africa’s High Court in 1995.
She later served as President of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, as a judge of the International Criminal Court, and as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
She currently serves as an ad hoc judge at the International Court of Justice. Her contribution to the landmark Akayesu judgment helped establish that rape and sexual violence may constitute acts of genocide.
In awarding this prize, the Norwegian Nobel Committee said it “attaches importance to Navi Pillay’s role as a driving force in the development of an international system of law and order, while further emphasising her judicial rigour, personal integrity and considerable courage.”
Kubayi expressed immense pride in Pillay’s lifelong dedication to justice.
“Her work gives practical expression to the values of equality and freedom enshrined in our Constitution,” she said. — SAnews.gov.za
