President Ramaphosa unable to attend Chief Justice's Zondo's farewell dinner due to eye infection

President Cyril Ramaphosa has delegated the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, to deliver a tribute on his behalf to Chief Justice Raymond Zondo at Tuesday’s farewell dinner for the outgoing Chief Justice.

The Chief Justice, who is retiring as a judge for 27 years, will be celebrated in Johannesburg.

COURTESY: @PresidencyZA - Chief Justice Raymond Zondo

The farewell dinner will take place on the eve of a Special Ceremonial Sitting of the Constitutional Court, at which the Judiciary, the Executive, Parliament, and the legal profession will honour Chief Justice Zondo’s contributions to the justice system and the country.

Ramaphosa appointed Zondo as the Chief Justice in 2022.

In a statement, the Presidency said the President's cancelled attendance is due to an earlier reported eye infection which affected scheduled engagements earlier on Tuesday.

Ramaphosa previously reflected on the significance of this role.

“The position of Chief Justice carries a great responsibility in our democracy. As the head of the Judiciary, the Chief Justice is a guardian of our Constitution and the laws adopted by the freely elected representatives of the people. The Chief Justice stands as the champion of the rights of all South Africans and bears responsibility for ensuring equal access to justice.”

‘’During his term, Chief Justice Zondo has been pivotal in advancing the transformation of the judiciary, leading the Labour Appeal Court through significant challenges, and presiding over the State Capture Commission. His leadership ensured that the findings and recommendations of the Commission had a lasting impact on South Africa's fight against corruption,’’ added President Cyril Ramaphosa.

 

Done By: Mitchum George