Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Jeff Radebe accompanied by Deputy Minister John Jeffery will officially open the newly built Pietermaritzburg Magistrate’s Court in KwaZulu-Natal province on Wednesday, 16 April 2014, at 09h00.
The opening of the newly built court is yet another demonstration of the department’s commitment to infrastructural development, intended for previously underserviced communities and an endeavor to bring justice service closer to the people.
New services introduced in the court include the new model of Sexual Offences court which confirms the department’s commitment to fight against abuse of women and children. This court also forms part of South African history because it is where the first democratic president, the late Nelson Mandela appeared after he was arrested in Howick on charges of leaving the country without a passport and calling on workers to strike. He appeared in this court in 1962 after his first appearance he was transferred to Johannesburg.
The official opening of the court will be followed by an Imbizo, during which members of the community will have an opportunity to directly interact with the Minister and other panel members on all issues related to justice services.
Members of the Media are invited as follows:
Part 1: Official Opening of Pietermaritzburg Magistrates’ Court
Date: Wednesday, 16 April 2014
Venue: Pietermaritzburg Magistrates’ Court, Annex building
Time: 09h00
Part 2: Public Participation
Venue: Lay Center Hall, Lot 60 off Old Edendale Road, Plessislaer
Time: 11h30-13h00
For media confirmations contact:
Emelda Mashakgomo at 072-584-8149 or EMashakgomo@justice.gov.za
Enquiries:
Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga
Spokesperson for the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development
Cell: 083 641 8141
E-mail: Mediaenquiries@justice.gov.za
