PRESIDENT'S EXTENSION OF CHIEF JUSTICE'S TERM

9 June 2011

The Office of the ANC Chief Whip supports President Zuma in his extension of the term of office of the Chief Justice of South Africa, Judge Sandile Ngcobo.

Since he began his term as Chief Justice, Judge Ngcobo has been exemplary in his conduct and has been praised by a wide section of society.  In fact, we are not aware of any criticisms of him as Chief Justice. 

He has made considerable progress in the establishment of a sound administration for the judiciary, a process that will culminate in the passing of the Superior Courts Bill in Parliament.  To replace him now as Chief Justice, at the age of only 58, would be an incredible waste of his intelligence, skills and experience.

We are dismayed that the extension of Judge Ngcobo's term of office has been criticized in some quarters.  The President has acted in terms of existing law and if there are views that the law is not sufficiently clear, this can be dealt within the Superior Courts Bill currently before Parliament. 

The ANC cautions all South Africans not to politicise the issue as doing so will undermine the integrity of Judge Ngcobo and the important office he occupies.

Statement issued by The Office Of the ANC Chief Whip, ANC Parliamentary Caucus, June 9 2011

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