President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a justice system that goes beyond constitutional promises and ensures that ordinary South Africans, particularly those from vulnerable communities, can access legal protection and defend their rights.
Delivering the keynote address at the International Conference on Access to Justice in Sun City, North West, Ramaphosa highlighted the inequalities that continue to prevent many people from accessing justice.
The conference, hosted by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, comes as South Africa prepares to commemorate 30 years since former President Nelson Mandela signed the country’s democratic Constitution.
Ramaphosa described the gathering as an important historical moment, providing an opportunity to reflect on the country’s democratic journey and assess the extent to which constitutional rights translate into meaningful protection for citizens.
He challenged delegates to consider what justice means for rural communities whose land and resources are taken away or threatened, but who lack the knowledge and resources to defend their rights.
He also raised concerns about vulnerable individuals who are exploited by those with greater wealth, information and power.
“These are not merely legal questions. They are profoundly human questions,” Ramaphosa emphasised.
He argued that these challenges reflect the relationship between citizens and the state, the powerful and the powerless, as well as the gap between the promises of democracy and the realities experienced by ordinary people.
According to the President, the strength of the Constitution, the independence of the courts and the effectiveness of the legal system must ultimately be measured by whether ordinary citizens can secure protection, obtain redress and access the necessary resources to pursue justice.
Ramaphosa further recalled that South Africa’s adoption of the Constitution came with a commitment that the law would never again be used as an instrument of oppression and exclusion.
His address placed the experiences of marginalised communities at the centre of discussions on strengthening access to justice and deepening democracy.
The three-day conference, taking place from 11 to 13 November, brings together stakeholders to discuss ways of strengthening people-centred justice systems and addressing barriers that prevent vulnerable and underserved communities from accessing justice services.
