Ramaphosa hails ConCourt as SA’s shining symbol of justice and democracy

ConCourt

Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa has praised South Africa’s Constitutional Court for its unwavering commitment to justice and human rights, describing it as a beacon of democracy and a source of national pride.

In his weekly newsletter released on Monday, Ramaphosa reflected on the court’s 30-year journey, highlighting its legacy of humanistic jurisprudence and its critical role in protecting the rights and freedoms of South Africans.

“At a time when democratic institutions are under threat globally, our Constitutional Court has remained steadfast in upholding the values of dignity, equality and freedom,” said the president.

Ramaphosa noted that the court’s establishment in 1994 marked a “bold chapter” in the country’s transition to democracy, born out of the multiparty negotiations that shaped post-apartheid South Africa.

The decision to form a new constitutional court, rather than relying on apartheid-era institutions, was championed by the African National Congress (ANC) and drew inspiration from Germany’s Federal Constitutional Court.

The president paid tribute to the first judges of the court, who travelled to Germany to learn from their counterparts.

“This proud institution of our democracy is the product of constitutional solidarity,” he said. “It draws on the wisdom and support of international partners, yet remains uniquely South African in its outlook, its orientation and values.”

Ramaphosa cited the court’s inaugural ruling in 1995 declaring the death penalty unconstitutional as a defining moment in its human rights trajectory. He quoted the late Chief Justice Ismail Mohamed, who described the new Constitution as a rejection of the racist and authoritarian past and a commitment to a democratic and egalitarian future.

He also pointed to the court’s landmark rulings over the years – from affirming access to HIV/AIDS treatment and the right of prisoners to vote, to safeguarding the rights of women in customary marriages and ensuring the safety of rail commuters.

The president emphasised the importance of judicial diversity, a principle defended by former Chief Justice Pius Langa in 2007, who argued that a variety of life experiences on the bench enriched decision-making and strengthened constitutional democracy.

Ramaphosa said the court’s consistent defence of justice “without fear or favour” has earned it public trust. Referencing a recent Ipsos poll, he noted that most South Africans see democracy and the rule of law as universal values and view South Africa as a moral leader in the global community.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we should honour the proud history of the court by continuing to work together as all of society to realise the full promise of our Constitution,” he concluded.

The Constitutional Court, situated in Johannesburg on the site of the former Old Fort prison, remains a powerful symbol of the country’s journey from oppression to justice

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