The Status and Role of Legislation In South Africa as a Constitutional Democracy: Some Exploratory Observatio
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17159/1727-3781/2011/v14i4a2585Abstract
This note explores the proposition that in the face of probably one of the most unequivocal forms of constitutional review in a modern day state, legislation in South Africa has since 27 April 1994 grown in status (and stature) nonetheless, and has assumed an unprecedented role in our constitutional democracy. First, it is shown how constitutional review with the necessary judicial self-restraint has instilled respect for legislation in the context of and with reference to the separation of powers. Second, it is shown that and how statutes have become (subsidiary) allies to the Constitution and have been standing the realisation of constitutional values in good stead. Finally, it is argued that the constitutional requirement of popular participation in legislative deliberation has also added to the esteem for legislation in our constitutional democracy.
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MEC for Education: KwaZulu Natal v Pillay 2008 2 BCLR 99 (CC); 2008 1 SA 474 (CC)
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National Coalition for Gay and Lesbian Equality v Minister of Justice 1998 12 BCLR 1517 (CC); 1999 1 SA 6 (CC)
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Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act 200 of 1993
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Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995
Promotion of Access to Information Act 2 of 2000
Promotion of Administrative Justice Act 3 of 2000
Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act 4 of 2000
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