Ramaphosa Constitutional Court a Pillar of Democratic Strength in South Africa
In his latest weekly newsletter, President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted the continued strength and resilience of South Africa’s democracy, asserting that despite ongoing challenges, the nation’s democratic order remains in “good health.” This message comes as South Africa marks a significant milestone: 30 years since the Constitutional Court first convened, signaling a bold new chapter in the country’s journey from apartheid to a constitutional democracy.
Ramaphosa lauded the transformative role that the Constitutional Court has played over the past three decades. He emphasized its distinct “humanistic” approach to the law, describing this legacy as a source of national pride. For the president, the court’s evolution reflects South Africa’s commitment to justice, equality, and human dignity.
Reflecting on the country’s transitional phase in the early 1990s, Ramaphosa underscored the foresight of the African National Congress (ANC) in advocating for the creation of a new judicial body – one that would be free from the influence of apartheid-era structures. While some stakeholders at the time argued that existing judicial institutions, like the Supreme Court, could fulfill this role, the ANC pushed for a new court that was, in Ramaphosa’s words, “untainted by the past.”
This call ultimately led to the establishment of the Constitutional Court – a specialized institution tasked with defending and interpreting South Africa’s progressive Constitution. According to President Ramaphosa, the founding of this court was one of the most critical outcomes of the multiparty negotiations that shaped the new democratic order.
“The Constitutional Court,” Ramaphosa wrote, “has played a fundamental role in anchoring our democracy. It has advanced the rights of ordinary South Africans and ensured that government remains accountable under the rule of law.”
Ramaphosa Cites Global Concerns Over Democratic Erosion
In his newsletter, Ramaphosa also drew parallels between South Africa’s democratic journey and global trends, referencing a March 2025 report by the United Nations Human Rights Council. The report expressed alarm over growing global instability, citing democratic backsliding, political extremism, and threats to judicial independence as key areas of concern.
The UN council emphasized the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions and called on countries to reinforce the rule of law and protect civil liberties. In this context, Ramaphosa stated that South Africa continues to demonstrate its commitment to these principles, largely through the continued relevance and strength of its Constitutional Court.
“We should be proud that, as a nation, we are striving to live up to our constitutional obligations,” Ramaphosa said. “In an era where many democracies are facing strain, South Africa’s judiciary stands as a beacon of hope and integrity.”
For President Ramaphosa, the strength of the judiciary is intertwined with broader democratic health. He argued that institutions like the Constitutional Court not only interpret the law but also act as critical safeguards against the erosion of rights and freedoms.
“Our democracy’s credibility depends in large part on the independence and authority of our courts,” Ramaphosa said. “It is through these institutions that we uphold the Constitution, check executive power, and give voice to the most vulnerable in society.”
He also noted that judicial rulings over the past three decades have reaffirmed key constitutional values – from socioeconomic rights to gender equality and freedom of expression. These judgments, Ramaphosa asserted, reflect the court’s deep commitment to promoting a just and equitable society.
As South Africa prepares to mark this 30-year milestone formally, Ramaphosa encouraged citizens to reflect not only on past achievements but also on the work that lies ahead. He called on all South Africans to remain vigilant in defending the rule of law and to support efforts to strengthen democratic institutions at every level.
“Democracy is not a destination, but a journey,” Ramaphosa concluded. “It requires constant nurturing, active citizenship, and a judiciary that remains fearless in the face of adversity.”
In a time when global confidence in democratic institutions is waning, Ramaphosa’s message is clear: South Africa’s Constitutional Court – and the principles it upholds – remain vital pillars of a democracy still in good health.
Source- EWN
