…urges professionalism and strict ethical conduct
Hopolang Mokhopi
CENTRAL Chief Magistrate ‘Mantankiso Nthunya has urged three newly sworn-in magistrates to uphold professionalism, impartiality and integrity as they assume their duties.
She delivered the message yesterday at the Maseru Magistrate’s Court during the swearing-in ceremony of Magistrates Sekoati Hlophe, Letlatsa Letompa and Thabo Chechela, after their appointment by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).
Prior to their appointments, Magistrate Hlophe served as a senior prosecutor, while Magistrates Letompa and Chechela were clerks to Justices Maliepollo Makhetha and Fumane Khabo respectively.
Magistrate Hlophe will be stationed at the Berea Magistrate’s Court, Letompa at Mafeteng, and Chechela at Mohale’s Hoek.
Magistrate Nthunya emphasised that the role of a magistrate differed significantly from that of an ordinary lawyer and required discipline, fairness and independence.
“The public trusts us to dispense justice without bias. It is a heavy responsibility, and we must uphold the highest standards,” she said.
She cautioned the trio that their conduct, both in and out of court, could affect public confidence in the judiciary, warning against inappropriate associations and frequenting unsuitable places.
“You are representatives of the judiciary; conduct yourselves with dignity at all times,” she advised.
Magistrate Nthunya also warned the magistrates against being influenced by social media and public opinion.
“The court’s decisions must not be swayed by online criticism or public commentary. Remain focused and principled in your work,” she said.
She further encouraged resilience and sound judgment, stressing that integrity must remain paramount.
“Making the right decisions, even under pressure, is essential to maintaining public trust,” she added.
Magistrate Nthunya expressed hope that the appointments would help ease the backlog of cases in the courts.
“We must work diligently to ensure cases are concluded efficiently and fairly, for the benefit of the public,” she said.
