Chief Justice Maya introduces Sexual Harassment Policy for the bench
Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court Mandisa Maya, has announced the introduction of a Sexual Harassment Policy for the Judiciary.
This was introduced on Sunday, during the National Women’s Day weekend in South Africa.
The Key Principles of the new policy for the bench include zero tolerance for sexual harassment, clear and confidential procedures for the reporting of complaints with protection against retaliation, and accountability with disciplinary consequences for offenders.
Maya says in a statement that this step is aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the courts and protecting the dignity of all who serve within them.
"This Policy is a necessary and urgent intervention," said Chief Justice Maya.
"The Judiciary cannot dispense justice to society if it does not first ensure it within its own ranks. Sexual harassment is a gross abuse of power, a denial of equality, and a stain on the legitimacy of the courts. We are going to tackle it head on and this policy will be a very useful mechanism in that battle."
Maya said this policy is not merely a document, but represents a covenant with the people of South Africa, and the Courts should lead by example.
"This Policy reiterates the Judiciary's unwavering commitment to the Constitutional values of human dignity, equality, and justice, and sends a clear massage sexual harassment has no place in the halls of justice."
This comes amid questions regarding sexual harassment in the courts in recent months - and after allegations of misconduct against Eastern Cape judge president Selby Mbenenge.
Gender based violence (GBV), sexual harassment and femicide have been declared a crisis in South Africa.
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