President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Mandisa Maya as the first female chief justice of South Africa. She will start her 10-year term on September 1.
Maya was recorded the first black woman to serve in the Supreme Court of Appeal. She then became the first woman to be appointed deputy president in of the court in 2015, and first woman president in 2017.
Raymond Zondo’s tenure comes to an end
The newly appointed chief justice will start her 10 years office term from September 1. This after her predecessor’s term, Raymond Zondo, comes to an end.
Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson to the President, confirmed the matter. He said Ramaphosa had informed the judicial service commission (JSC) in February of his intention to appoint Maya to the position.
“The president invited the judicial service commission to provide its views on the suitability of justice Maya to hold office of the chief justice,” said Magwenya.
Maya was the sole nominee. Her JSC interview to ascertain her suitability to be appointed as chief justice was hosted in Johannesburg.
But this was not her first nomination to be chief justice. Ramaphosa had previously chosen Zondo over her and other nominees to replace former chief justice Mogoeng Mogoeng.
He said the interview was a success as the JSC confirmed that Maya was a suitable candidate.
Sole nominee ticked all boxes
This, according to Magwenya, depended on her qualification, judicial record, leadership qualities and experience in various courts.
“The commissioners also advised that Justice Maya’s appointment would be a significant milestone for the country. This is because Justice Maya would be the first woman to be appointed chief justice.
“President Ramaphosa appreciates the confidence expressed by the judicial service commission and leaders of political parties in the suitability of the incoming chief justice, who can draw inspiration and support from the confidence expressed in her,” said Magwenya.
