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"The ACDP shares the sentiments expressed by other speakers in paying tribute to former Chief Justice Pius Langa for his dedicated 15 years on the constitutional bench - and for his leadership of the judiciary during a very tumultuous period. We also bid farewell to justices Kate O'Reagan, Yvonne Mokgoro, and Albie Sachs.

The Constitutional Court has developed an impressive body of jurisprudence and precedents during the former chief justices' tenure, maintaining its independence, while still showing respect for the executive and parliament. It has also had to grapple with issues that rocked it to the core, such as having to lodge complaints against the Western Cape Judge President.

The former chief justice's commitment to constitutionalism and multi-party democracy was very clearly illustrated when, under his guidance, the court agreed to hear an ACDP urgent application ‘after hours' and provided urgent relief enabling us to contest the local government elections in Cape Town in 2006.

We join others today in honouring you, sir and wishing you well in your retirement.

We also welcome the new Chief Justice, Justice Ngcobo, who has exceptionally broad legal experience, gained here and in the USA, which spans academic, practice and judicial fields.

In many respects the judiciary and its public reputation are facing very serious challenges particularly following ethical lapses and questionable conduct by some judges. Judicial legitimacy is grounded in the perception of fairness, impartiality and trust - which takes years to build.

There are also serious issues relating to transformation, as well as institutional and administrative challenges, which include making justice accessible to the most vulnerable. We appreciate the fact that the Chief Justice views being a judge as a higher calling - he will no doubt need the wisdom of Solomon as he seeks to meet these challenges.

The ACDP has no doubt that, considering his track record, the new chief justice will lead the judiciary in a manner that not only preserves its independence, but also restores its reputation in the eyes of the broader public".