Justice Minister Jeff Radebe has told the Constitutional Court and many of the country's other top judges government will not weaken the judiciary.

He addressed a farewell ceremony for four Constitutional Court judges retiring next month.

Chief Justice Pius Langa, along with judges Kate O'Regan, Yvonne Mokgoro and Albie Sachs, will step down while judge Tholi Madala left last year.

Radebe said last week's Judicial Service Commission hearings to pick their replacements went smoothly but did generate some heat.

National Assembly Speaker Max Sisulu praised the court, saying it had broadened democracy in South Africa.