Judiciary is in good hands indeed, says Zuma

PRESIDENT Jacob Zuma told a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament that our judiciary 'is in good hands indeed'.

Speaking first in a sitting called to pay tribute to the retiring Chief Justice Pius Langa, and to welcome in his place Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo the president said that Langa worked to ensure that justice was strengthened through the Constitutional Court.

"The Constitutional Court is today one of the most respected institutions in our country," he said. "Our people have confidence that it is able to rule on critical and controversial cases without fear, favour or prejudice.

"Throughout his term of office Justice Langa has ensured that the independence of the judiciary is not compromised."

Welcoming Justice Ngcobo the president said that his credentials and his extensive experience will stand him in good stead for the tasks that lie ahead.

"As Justice Ngcobo assumes office, the country continues to face a number of challenges in its efforts to ensure access to justice for all," the President said. "Our government must ensure that even the poorest of the poor have access to the courts, that they receive quality justice, and that they attain relief speedily."

He insisted that the issue of the transformation of the judiciary remains one of central challenges that must continue to be addressed.

"We know that transformation is not an event but a prolonged struggle," he said. "This struggle must further entrench the independence of the judiciary, for which so many of our people fought. This struggle must promote human rights, social justice and dignity for all.

"This must be reflected in the manner that justice is dispensed. We must realise the right of equal access to justice for all South Africans, rich or poor, black or white, urban or rural, educated or illiterate."