Rule of law protects democracy
BRYANSTON- Chairperson of Freedom Under Law, Judge Johann Kriegler, was asked to talk at the Free Market Foundation.
Freedom Under Law is a non-profit organisation that promotes respect for the rule of law and the principle of legality within a democratic framework.
According to Kriegler, Freedom Under Law has recently had some singular successes, but there is no room for complacency, as they “cannot rest on any laurels”.
“Tactical victories such as blocking the Simelanes [advocate Menzi Simelane charged with misconduct by the National Prosecuting Authority]; the Mdlulis [Lieutenant-General Richard Mdluli who is part of a murder conspiracy]; and the Hlophes [Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe accused of gross misconduct in court] are not enough. The root causes of these phenomena remain in place,” said Kriegler.
He shared his concerns about courts in South Africa, and said “power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely”.
“Legislation such as the Legal Practice Bill has ominous long-term implications. The sirens call for the transformation of the justice system,” said Kriegler.
“Ultimately, only adherence to the rule of law can safeguard our democracy,” he concluded.
