The Constitutional Court of South Africa has recently bid farewell to Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, who has served the court with distinction for the past two years. His term as Acting Deputy Chief Justice has come to an end, and the court has expressed its gratitude for his invaluable contributions during his tenure.
Madlanga was appointed as Acting Deputy Chief Justice in November 2018, following the retirement of Justice Dikgang Moseneke. He has been a member of the Constitutional Court since 2013 and has served as Acting Deputy Chief Justice on two separate occasions. His wealth of experience and expertise in constitutional law has been a valuable asset to the court.
During his time as Acting Deputy Chief Justice, Madlanga has presided over several landmark cases that have shaped the legal landscape of South Africa. His judgements have been characterized by a deep understanding of the Constitution and a commitment to upholding the rule of law. He has been praised for his meticulous approach to legal reasoning and his ability to balance competing interests in complex cases.
One of the most notable cases that Madlanga presided over was the recent ruling on the constitutionality of the use of corporal punishment in the home. In a unanimous decision, the court declared that the use of physical discipline against children by their parents or caregivers is unconstitutional. This ruling has been hailed as a significant step towards protecting the rights of children in South Africa.
Madlanga’s contributions to the Constitutional Court extend beyond his role as Acting Deputy Chief Justice. He has also been actively involved in various initiatives aimed at promoting access to justice and advancing the rule of law in South Africa. He has been a vocal advocate for the transformation of the legal profession and has championed the cause of gender equality in the judiciary.
In his farewell speech, Madlanga expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Acting Deputy Chief Justice and thanked his colleagues for their support and guidance. He also reflected on the progress made by the Constitutional Court in promoting social justice and protecting the rights of all South Africans. He urged his fellow judges to continue their important work and to remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding the Constitution.
The Constitutional Court has bid farewell to Madlanga with a sense of sadness but also with a deep sense of appreciation for his contributions. Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng described him as a “towering figure” in the legal profession and praised his unwavering dedication to justice and the rule of law. The court has no doubt that Madlanga’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of legal professionals.
As Madlanga steps down from his role as Acting Deputy Chief Justice, he leaves behind a lasting legacy of integrity, wisdom, and compassion. His commitment to the Constitution and his unwavering pursuit of justice have earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the South African public. The Constitutional Court bids farewell to Madlanga with deep gratitude and wishes him all the best in his future endeavors.
In conclusion, the Constitutional Court of South Africa has bid farewell to Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, a distinguished jurist and a true champion of justice. His contributions to the court and the legal profession will be remembered for years to come. The court is confident that Madlanga’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide the pursuit of justice in South Africa.
