The Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, the Honourable Andries Nel, MP, invites the media to join him in the inspection and celebration of the newly refurbished Athlone Magistrates Court. The Department will share information with the media reflecting on the positive impact the recently completed R13 million improved infrastructure has had on service delivery. In addition, the Department will reflect on the effectiveness of a number of campaigns and interventions that were introduced in order to enhance access to justice services in the area.
The tour of the court will include paying respect to two Athlone anti-apartheid activists, Robert Waterwitch and Coline Williams, who were killed at the Athlone Magistrate court on 23 July 1989 while protesting against the exclusion of black people from participating in the tricameral elections at time.
After the celebration, the Deputy Minister will proceed to a community Imbizo at Malibu Village in Bluedowns where residents will have an opportunity to interact with government on maintenance related issues. This is part of the department's drive to improve the functioning of the maintenance system.