Blog Series: Interview with Justice Leona Theron
Editor’s note: This video is part of a series of interviews that we conducted with members of the South African Judiciary to commemorate 30 years of democracy in South Africa. The purpose of these interviews was to reflect on and discuss the development of South Africa’s constitutional democracy since its first democratic election in 1994.
Even before her elevation to the Constitutional Court in 2017, Justice Leona Theron has led a trailblazing judicial career. She was the first Black female Judge of the Kwa-Zulu Natal Division of the High Court and has contributed significantly to South Africa’s constitutional democracy as a jurist, advocate and through various academic positions that she has held. Throughout her career she has been recognised for her progressive mindset and her commitment to equality, among other fundamental tenets of the Constitution.
This interview explored the evolving role of South Africa’s Constitution in protecting democracy and human rights over the past three decades. It covered the successes and shortcomings of the constitutional framework, the impact of landmark court decisions, and the delicate balance the Court must maintain between respecting the separation of powers and ensuring government accountability. The discussion also addressed the increasing involvement of the Court in politically sensitive matters, its efforts to render justice in a way that reflects the country’s diverse realities, and the extent to which access to justice has been realised for previously disadvantaged groups. Broader societal issues such as crime, gender-based violence, and inequality were considered in relation to the judiciary’s role, along with ongoing constitutional and legal challenges facing South Africa’s democracy.
