Deputy Speaker, the implementation of the new regulations of the Judicial Service Commission Act, which compels all judges to disclose their financial interests, must be welcomed. Previously, judges did not have to declare their financial interests, gifts or any money they earned over and above their judges' salaries.
Judges have to disclose their interest in terms of the regulations to develop public confidence in the judiciary by promoting transparency and promoting the culture of openness. This is so that judges may apply the law without favour or prejudice.
Judges have to disclose their interests in terms of the regulations to ensure that they are free from the influence of undisclosed private or business interests. Judges have to disclose their interests in terms of the regulations promoting accountability in the judiciary - which permits public access to the necessary information through the Promotion of Access to Information Act - for the public to be able to gauge their performance in regard to matters of professional conduct.
In the past, judges, unlike politicians, did not have to declare their interests, material or otherwise. They now also have to declare their family's interests. I thank you. [Applause.]