JUDGE Mandisa Maya, appointed as the first, black female Chief Justice.
This was confirmed by Presidency’s office on Thursday.
Currently, Maya is the Deputy Chief Justice, appointed in September 2023 after she was interviewed by the Judicial Service Commission.
She takes over from the out-going Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo, whose term ends August 31, 2024.
Maya’s appointment follows an interview with the Justice Service Commission on May 21 to ascertain her suitability to be appointed as Chief Justice of South Africa.
The Presidency said in a statement that before appointing Maya, President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa consulted with the Judicial Service Commission and the leaders of political parties represented in the National Assembly.
“The President invited the Judicial Service Commission to provide its views on the suitability of Justice Maya to hold the office of Chief Justice.”
The Presidency said that Ramaphosa was assured by the Judicial Service Commission that Maya was suitable to lead the judiciary in the country based on the interview, her qualifications and judicial record, her leadership qualities, and her experience as a judge in various courts.
“The Commissioners also advised that Justice Maya’s appointment would be a significant milestone for the country as Justice Maya would be the first woman in South Africa to be appointed Chief Justice,” the Presidency said.
It was said that Pres Ramaphosa appreciates the confidence of the Judicial Service Commission and leaders of political parties in the suitability of Maya’s appointment.
Various political parties and civil organisations have praised the appointment of Maya, and wished her well in her new responsibilities.
Image (Incoming first female CJ Mandisa Maya).
