IFP WELCOMES NOMINATION OF JUDGE NGCOBO AS CHIEF JUSTICE

The Inkatha Freedom Party has welcomed the nomination of Constitutional Court Judge Sandile Ngcobo to replace the outgoing Chief Justice Pius Langa, but said that it was surprised by the nomination of Ngcobo.

"I am very surprised that President Zuma did not nominate Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke for the post, because he is without a doubt the most suitable candidate. Nevertheless, the IFP welcomes the announcement because it now eliminates the controversial Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe from the race," said Mr Koos van der Merwe, IFP Chief Whip and spokesperson on justice.

Van der Merwe added that he had confidence in Judge Ngcobo.

"We are confident that Judge Ngcobo will fulfil his duties as the new Chief Justice impeccably and we wish him success in the important role he is about to assume," said Van der Merwe.

Statement issued by the Inkatha Freedom Party, August 7 2009

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