- Court interpreters play a pivotal role in guaranteeing justice, inclusion, and protection of constitutional rights.
- Robing initiative symbolises dignity, professionalism, and equality in the courtroom.
- New law establishes Language Practitioners’ Council to regulate and uplift the profession.
South Africa is now the first country to formally robe court interpreters, underscoring their key role in ensuring justice. This step marks a global precedent for recognising interpreters' importance in access to justice.
The ceremony took place on Tuesday 28 October 2025 at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre in Pretoria. It was led by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi and attended by senior members of the judiciary, including Deputy Chief Justice Dunstan Mlambo and Legal Aid SA Chairperson Judge Nobulawo Mbhele.
Kubayi called the robing programme a global first that professionalises interpreting. She emphasised that interpreters are key "guardians of constitutional rights," ensuring meaningful participation in courts for all.
From apartheid exclusion to constitutional dignity
The minister reflected on the painful history of interpreting during apartheid, when interpreters faced poor training, segregation, and exploitation. “They were inadequately trained, unjustly treated, and expected to be complicit in the injustices of the apartheid courts,” she stated. In contrast, in a constitutional democracy, interpreters now stand as agents of empowerment and equality.
She stressed that court interpreters hold a crucial position in the quest for justice, where "appearing before a court of law may mean the difference between freedom and captivity.” The robing is both symbolic and practical; it visibly affirms dignity and professionalism.
Raising standards and strengthening integrity
While commending interpreters for their essential work, Kubayi also warned those who undermine the system through absenteeism or misconduct. “Faced with the challenge of huge case backlogs, our courts cannot afford interpreters who do not understand the importance of improving court efficiency,” she said. She added that professionalism and ethical conduct must define the role.
The new robes come with responsibilities. Interpreters must embody the ethical foundation of their work. This includes accuracy, impartiality, integrity, empathy, and cultural sensitivity, principles drawn from the Court Interpreters’ Pledge.
Justice College will continue to provide foundational training for interpreters. The Departmental Bursary Scheme will support further academic and professional advancement.
The Language Practitioners’ Council Act and the road ahead
A significant legislative milestone was also announced; the full commencement of the South African Language Practitioners’ Council Act, 2014, signed into effect by the President in August 2025. The Act establishes a regulatory body to accredit practitioners, enforce ethical codes, and promote inclusivity in the language services sector.
“The council will be instrumental in standardising and elevating the status of interpreters, ensuring their work is recognized, respected, and protected,” Kubayi said.
She also emphasised the inclusion of South African Sign Language (SASL) interpreters at commissions of inquiry and other platforms. This affirms the Department’s commitment to linguistic accessibility for the Deaf community.
A new era for linguistic justice
In her closing message to interpreters, Kubayi urged them to “stand tall, speak truth, serve justice.” She described the robe as more than attire. It is “a symbol of your role as a professional, an equal partner in the courtroom, and a defender of justice.”
“Let this launch be the beginning of a new era, one of professional excellence, ethical leadership, and linguistic justice,” she said.
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