In a groundbreaking development for South Africa’s judiciary, President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Mandisa Maya as the country’s new Chief Justice. This landmark decision makes Maya the first woman to ever hold this prestigious position in South Africa.
Currently serving as Deputy Chief Justice, Maya will officially step into her new role on September 1. The announcement was made by Vincent Magwenya, the spokesperson for President Ramaphosa.
According to Magwenya, the appointment was made following thorough consultations with the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and leaders of political parties within the National Assembly, in line with constitutional protocols.
Magwenya said: “The commission subsequently assured the president of Justice Maya’s suitability to lead the judiciary in the country based on the interview, Justice Maya’s qualifications and judicial record, her leadership qualities, her experience as a judge in various courts, her past leadership of the Supreme Court of Appeal, and her role as deputy chief justice.”
Magwenya emphasized that this appointment is a landmark achievement for South Africa, highlighting Maya’s groundbreaking role as the first female Chief Justice in the country’s history.
“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,” Magwenya added.
Justice Mandisa Maya’s appointment is expected to bring a new era of leadership to South Africa’s judiciary.
