The Justices Michael Leburu, Tshepo Motswagole and Lot Moroka’s call to the bench is considered ‘long overdue’ for them having displayed dedication and hard work and contributed immensely to the Administration of Justice (AoJ) and the President says he expects more from their lengthy experience in the legal fraternity. “You have to be aware that high expectations are placed on legal practitioners, particularly judges. You may have the qualifications, having read law and acquired it. But there is a continuous assessment that determines that you are fit and proper. A judge is expected to make that decision when admitted into the profession,” he said. Boko, who recently approved the judges to join the CoA bench, on Wednesday this week presided over their swearing-in ceremony after the judges ceased their duties at the High Court. In his address to the Justices, Boko noted the responsibility placed on the legal profession emphasising that becoming a judge is not just a career but a calling defined by serious ethical and professional standards and that those who fall short in their performance will be laid off. “We know it is a profession because there are rules that apply.
There is a ritual that you go through when you are admitted into the legal profession. You have to be assessed. And it has to be determined that you are fit and proper. Those who fall short on their duties will be let go and thanked the judges,” he said. Boko also reminded the new COA judges of the continuous responsibility to uphold the values of justice and ethical conduct stating that there are protocols on how a judge must behave so that they remain in the profession. In closing, he wished the trio to display wisdom and integrity in their judicial duties. Meanwhile, there is no doubt that the three judges are highly qualified and experienced in the legal fraternity backed by their CV’s. Justice Leburu's CV shows that he is a highly competent, qualified and experienced judge of the High Court and he is one of the finest legal brains in the country. Justice Leburu is best described as intelligent, modest and humble. Considered well rounded, Justice Leburu has enjoyed an illustrious career right from 1993 when he graduated at the top of his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Class.
