Johannesburg – South African President Cyril Ramaphosa says his government will ensure that the judiciary receives the necessary resources to operate independently, even as the country grapples with a strained national budget.
He made the remarks on Friday during the 30th anniversary of the Constitutional Court in Braamfontein, where he addressed growing concerns about the ability of institutions like the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to function under mounting fiscal pressure.
Acknowledging that economic growth has been sluggish, the President said reduced government revenue will not affect the core democratic institutions. He said the judiciary, along with Parliament and the Executive, will be given priority in future funding decisions.
Ramaphosa told journalists that steps are already being taken to ensure the judiciary manages its own budget — a shift that would allow it to implement infrastructure upgrades and administrative training without going through the Ministry of Justice.
He credited Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi and Chief Justice Mandisa Maya for their efforts in making this financial autonomy a reality. He also recognised former Chief Justice Raymond Zondo for laying the groundwork as early as 2013, with the process gaining momentum under Maya’s leadership.
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