Chinette Gallichan (Photo: LinkedIn)
The Association of Civil Servants (USA) has strongly condemned the murder of Chinette Gallichan, a labor lawyer, and warns that violence against role players in the legal system poses a direct threat to South Africa’s constitutional order.
Maroela Media earlier reported that Gallichan was killed on Monday outside the office of the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (KVBA).
“This tragic incident is not an isolated incident, but forms part of a disturbing pattern of violence against officials who work in the justice system,” the US said in a statement.
‘The rule of law itself is under attack’
The US says it views any attack on legal officials and prosecutors as a “direct attack on the rule of law and the democratic foundation of South Africa”.
“These professionals play a critical role in ensuring that justice is done and that the Constitution is upheld.”
According to the organization, such violence has far-reaching consequences.
“When these persons become targets of violence, the integrity and stability of the justice system is seriously threatened. It creates a climate of fear that directly undermines the ability of these officials to do their jobs.”
The US also referred to similar incidents in the past year, which they said underscored the seriousness of the situation.
“In July 2025, Tracy Brown, a regional court prosecutor attached to the New Brighton court in Gqeberha, was murdered outside her home. On 29 April 2025, another prosecutor, Elona Sombulula, was killed in the Mendu settlement near Ngcobo in the Eastern Cape.”
The organization believes these incidents indicate a growing trend.
“This series of murders points to a disturbing pattern in which persons who uphold the law are increasingly vulnerable. It is unacceptable that people who dedicate their lives to the maintenance of justice themselves become victims of violence.”
Call for urgent intervention
The USA is now making an urgent appeal to the government to prioritize the safety of role players in the legal system.
“The government, and specifically the clusters for justice, crime prevention and security, must treat the protection of prosecutors, legal officials and all officials in the legal system as a matter of urgency.
“Stronger security measures, thorough risk assessments and effective protection mechanisms must be introduced.
“It is impossible to expect these officials to do their job without fear if their safety is not guaranteed. The state has a duty to ensure that those who apply the law are themselves protected.”
‘Justice must prevail’
The US has made an urgent appeal to law enforcement authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are quickly located, arrested and prosecuted.
“Only through swift and decisive action can trust in the legal system be restored and maintained.”
The US also expressed its deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Gallichan.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to protect public service workers and to advocate for safer working conditions in the legal sector.”