From the President’s desk

From the President’s desk

A good October morning to every colleague still carrying a court.

Colleagues,

This sixth edition is offered with respect, while the ordinary roll continues and several questions remain open. The Judicial Service Commission is in session. The Madlanga Commission has paused its public hearings, not its work. The local government elections fall on 4 November. Consultation on the next remuneration determination is under way.

JASA is a room in which magistrates may speak to one another as officers. In the photograph on the cover, the President is with Mr Nivan Hunsraj, Head of the Tactical Division. We try to be accurate, and to stay on the proper side of the line between adjudication and comment. The articles record what has been decided, what has been proposed, and what remains open.

Two practical requests, offered quietly. Court managers are asked to treat the election period as a matter of security and continuity: lists, after-hours contact, service of protection orders, and the safety of staff and witnesses. Colleagues who sit in civil matters will find, in the notes on small claims, interest and the National Credit Act, material that may assist in reasons.

I thank those who continue to sit, often in difficult buildings and with limited support, while these larger questions proceed. The Alliance remains available on questions of security, discipline and conditions of service.

With respect, and with every good wish for the sitting month —

Neelan Karikan

Founder and President, Judicial Officers Alliance of South Africa

A note from Neelan Karikan. A newsletter can only point to the record. The order is written by the officer who heard the case. We offer these notes in that spirit.