Swearing in the new Consumer court members
The new members of the Consumer sourt was sworn-in on 26 June.
BETHAL – New members of Mpumalanga’s two Consumer Courts were sworn in by Bethal’s Senior Magistrate in the presence of MEC Mr Sikhumbuzo Eric Kholwane for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism at the Blue Gum Country Lodge.
In terms of Section 14 of the Mpumalanga Consumer Affairs Act No. 6 of 1998, members and alternative members of the Consumer Court shall before assuming office take an oath or solemn affirmation in the presence of the MEC responsible for consumer affairs in the province.
Mpumalanga is one of the four provinces that over the past four years have fully operational consumer courts.
In the past there was only one consumer court which was operating on a rotational basis servicing the three districts.
However this has changed as the second court has been added following the approval of the Executive Council.
In total, 15 members will be sworn in for the two courts, with eight of them servicing the Ehlanzeni district and seven servicing both Nkangala and Gert Sibande districts.
The Consumer Court presides over consumer cases that would be investigated by the office of the Consumer Protector, and accordingly processed, to ensure that consumer rights become a legislative reality.
The event was opened with a prayer by Past ES Mokoena.
The court is empowered to make orders for the prohibition and control of unfair business practices.
It may also negotiate and conclude arrangements with any person for the discontinuation and avoidance of any unfair business practice.
This was a symbolic event where the public has witnessed the event.
The members were congratulated and received gift packs from the members of the National Consumer Tribunal.
For more information, contact Mr Mohau Ramodibe, Communication Directorate, at 082 771 9950 or 013 766 4148.
