Durban Magistrates Protest For Fair Salaries And Judicial Independence

Durban magistrates staged a public protest on Monday, advocating for fair remuneration and the protection of judicial independence. Leading the demonstration, Magistrate Scelo Zuma of the Judicial Officers’ Association of South Africa (Joasa) highlighted long-standing grievances that have been repeatedly overlooked.

“There is an outstanding, long-standing issue relating to our salaries,” Zuma said, emphasising that repeated recommendations to the president and the Judicial Service Commission have yet to yield meaningful changes.

“This is happening annually. We have tried to litigate. However, our calls and cries are not heeded,” he added.

Disparities in Benefits Fuel Frustration

Protesters drew attention to the benefits gap between magistrates and judges, citing the lack of medical aid, housing allowances, and vehicle allowances. “We do not have medical aid, housing allowances or vehicle allowances,” Zuma explained, highlighting the financial pressures faced by magistrates.

Veteran Magistrate Dr Betty Rauheath, with 48 years in the profession, shared her disappointment at leaving the judiciary without seeing improvements. “I’m now 70 and I have to leave, but I feel sad that I have to leave without having seen any changes,” she said.

Magistrate Mondli Nhlangulela, serving for seven years, stressed the impact of mortgage and vehicle costs on their limited salaries. “If we can be given housing allowance, car allowance and a petrol card, we will be able to breathe,” he urged, warning that financial pressures could compromise professional integrity.

Durban Magistrates: Calls for Urgent Action and Future Protests

Nhlangulela also hinted at escalated action if their demands remain unmet. “For now, we’re just firing the first shot. If the powers that be do not come to the party, then we might have to disturb the operation of the court,” he warned.

Advocate Francois Botes SC noted that magistrates dissatisfied with working conditions or pay should raise concerns with the Magistrates Commission, adding, “If all of that fails, well, then a court application must be initiated to the High Court.”

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Zuma concluded the protest with a firm message of unity and persistence. “It is a dire situation. It is something that, unfortunately, we cannot let go of. It has to be addressed,” he stated.

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