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Minister Balfour appoints Judge van Zyl as Acting Inspecting Judge of Prisons
5 May 2008
Correctional Service Minister Ngconde Balfour has appointed Judge Deon Van Zyl of the Cape Provincial Division as Acting Inspecting Judge of Prisons with effect from 1 May 2008, taking over from Judge Ntlupheko Yekiso who has acted in the position for a year.
Judge Van Zyl has an illustrious academic record and judicial experience in South Africa. Born on 22 August 1943, in Springs, Judge Van Zyl matriculated in 1961 at Springs Boys' High School and continued to his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and MA in Latin from the University of Pretoria in 1968. He continued with his studies and obtained four doctorates in South Africa and abroad.
His experience in the legal fraternity includes heading of Roman Law and Legal History Department at the University of Free State and Pretoria, a visiting professor of University of Edinburgh in Scotland, an advocate and Senior Counsel (SC), a Judge of the Transvaal Provincial Division from 1985 to 1993 before moving to the Cape Provincial Division in 1994.
He is a prolific writer, a sport enthusiast and a dedicated community worker that received accolades like Paul Harris Awards for the work he did for the Rotary Club of Gordon's Bay.
Judge Van Zyl will fill the position also held in an acting capacity by Judge Ntlupheko Yekiso since March 2007. Minister Balfour expressed his gratitude to the outgoing acting Judge Yekiso. Minister Balfour also expressed full confidence in Judge Van Zyl, whose record of upholding and promoting human rights speaks for itself.
Judge Van Zyl welcomed the appointment as a demonstration of the Minister's confidence. He said: "I believe this is a service I must render to the community and the nation of South Africa, and I am looking forward to making a difference."
Media wishing to contact Judge Van Zyl can reach him at the following numbers:
Tel: 021 426 1128
Tel: 021 480 2617
E-mail: dhvanzyl@justice.gov.za
Enquiries:
Manelisi Wolela
Tel: 012 305 8205
Cell: 083 626 0304
Issued by: Department of Correctional Services
5 May 2008
Source: Department of Correctional Services (http://www.dcs.gov.za)