The Commission re-iterates its support of the decision of the Constitutional Court handed down on Tuesday morning, the 29th June 2021, in which the Court sentenced former President Jacob Zuma to 15 months imprisonment, for contempt of court when he failed to appear and participate at the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture.

This decision of the Court remains seminal, as it demonstrates that no person, even a former Head of State, is above the law and that the principle of equality before the law holds true. Respect for the rule of law is crucial for the protection and promotion of human rights, the stability of South Africa’s constitutional democracy and holds all to equal account before the law. There is a constitutional obligation in terms of section 165 of the Constitution for all of us not to interfere with the functioning of the courts and thereby protect their independence, dignity, and effectiveness. We also have to note the importance of respecting decisions of the courts unless challenged.

The Commission thus urges political leaders and members of the public to take responsibility and allow the rule of law to prevail and dissuade their supporters from flouting a decision of the apex court through violent and damaging protests. The SAHRC re-iterates its position that the only manner in which our constitutional democracy will remain functional, is to hold the Constitution supreme and ensure the independence of the judiciary, affording it the necessary space to do its work without hindrance and unencumbered and have its decisions respected.

Ends

Issued by the South African Human Rights Commission
Gushwell Brooks – Communications Co-ordinator Tel: 082 645 8573 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.