Minister wants ‘new blood’ on Bench

Recalling retired judges, she said, would block the entry of new blood, according to the Pretoria News. Her remarks follow ongoing criticism about her alleged refusal to appoint two white male advocates into acting positions as judges in the Free State High Court. She has been severely criticised by the opposition, which also slammed the government\'s transformation agenda, saying it put race above competence and qualifications. Mabandla denied this, telling the NCOP that she refused to endorse the two because she felt their appointments were not contributing to gender equity, in line with an agreement she had with heads of courts in 2004. Full Pretoria News report