Parliament Presiding Officers requests an urgent meeting with Chief Justice

23 June 2023

The Presiding Officers of Parliament, comprising the Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Mr Amos Masondo, have formally requested an urgent meeting with the Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa, Raymond Zondo. This meeting is intended to address matters of concern between the Judiciary and the Legislature, specifically in relation to recent public statements made by the Chief Justice regarding Parliament's role in the implementation of the Judicial Commission into State Capture, Corruption, and Fraud in the Public Sector, Including Organs of State.

Recognizing the importance of maintaining a healthy working relationship between the Judiciary and the Legislature, the Presiding Officers have sought this meeting as a platform for constructive dialogue. The objective is to clarify any potential misunderstandings and to establish a common understanding of the respective roles and responsibilities of each arm of government within the context of Parliament's implementation of the commission's recommendations.

The Presiding Officers of Parliament are fully aware of their constitutional mandate and the need to collaborate and work harmoniously with the Judiciary. This meeting is an important step towards strengthening the relationship between the Judiciary and the Legislature, as well as fostering public trust and confidence in our democratic system.

Issued by Moloto Mothapo, Media Officer, Parliament, 23 June 2023