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President Cyril Ramaphosa has, under Section 174(3) of the Constitution, appointed Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo as the new Chief Justice from April 1, 2022.
The President’s decision follows consultation with the Judicial Service Commission. He further consulted leaders of parties in the National Assembly.
In terms of the Constitution, the Chief Justice is “the head of the judiciary exercises responsibility over the establishment and monitoring of norms and standards. He also exercises responsibility of the judicial functions of all courts.”
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With Justice Zondo assuming the position of Chief Justice, the position of Deputy Chief Justice will become vacant. President Ramaphosa has indicated his intention to nominate Justice Mandisa Maya to be Zondo’s deputy. This nomination will be subject to the process outlined in Section 174(3) of the Constitution.
“The inclusive process of selecting the next Chief Justice demonstrated not only the value that South Africans place on the judiciary. It also showed the depth of experience and capability within the senior ranks of the judiciary.”
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“The position of Chief Justice carries great responsibility in our democracy. As the head of the judiciary, the Chief Justice is the guardian of our Constitution. The Chief Justice stands as the champion of rights for all South Africans. He bears responsibility for ensuring equal access to justice. I have every confidence that Justice Zondo will acquit himself with distinction in this position,” said President Ramaphosa.
