Chief Justice Mandisa Maya has published what her office described as a landmark sexual harassment policy for the judiciary.
It comes at the back of sexual harassment allegations against Eastern Cape Judge President, Selby Mbenenge, by judges’ secretary, Andiswa Mengo whose case is being heard by the Judicial Conduct Tribunal.
In a press release, the Office of the Chief Justice (COJ) reaffirmed its commitment to safeguard the integrity of the courts and its employees through the new policy.
‘’As custodians of the Constitution, Judges and Magistrates, bear a profound responsibility to uphold the highest standards of integrity.
The Bangalore Principles of Judicial Conduct and South Africa’s own Judicial Codes of Conduct demand nothing less.
Yet, where sexual harassment occurs within the Judiciary, it is not only a personal violation, but also an affront to the rule of law itself, eroding public trust and betraying the very principles the institution exists to defend and uphold,” read the statement.
Among others, some key principles of the policy aim to maintain a safe and respectful workplace that is free from discrimination and intimidation, promote accountability with disciplinary consequences for offenders as well as to enforce a zero-tolerance approach for sexual harassment by any judicial officer, staff member or individual engaging with the judiciary.
Justice Maya added that the policy will not be treated as an ordinary document but will be used to execute urgent intervention and ensure adherence across the board.
“This is not merely a document, it is a covenant with the people of South Africa.
We must lead by example,” emphasised Maya.
The Chief Justice is optimistic that this development will encourage other sectors to prioritise equality and accountability within workspaces.
