Mandisa Maya Appointed as SA's First Female Chief Justice

The Judicial Service Commission, fulfilling its consultative role under Section 174(3) of the Constitution, interviewed Justice Maya on May 21, 2024.

In a historic move for South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the appointment of Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya as the new Chief Justice of the Republic, effective September 1, 2024.

This significant appointment follows a thorough consultation process mandated by the Constitution. The President engaged with the Judicial Service Commission and leaders of political parties in the National Assembly to ensure a comprehensive review of Justice Maya’s suitability for the role.

On February 22, 2024, President Ramaphosa notified the Judicial Service Commission of his intention to appoint Deputy Chief Justice Maya as Chief Justice upon the conclusion of Chief Justice Raymond Zondo’s term on August 31, 2024. He sought the Commission’s input on Justice Maya’s qualifications for the position.

The Judicial Service Commission, fulfilling its consultative role under Section 174(3) of the Constitution, interviewed Justice Maya on May 21, 2024. Following this interview, the Commission affirmed Justice Maya’s suitability to lead South Africa’s judiciary, citing her impressive qualifications, judicial experience, leadership as the President of the Supreme Court of Appeal, and her role as Deputy Chief Justice.

The appointment of Justice Maya is particularly notable as she will be the first woman to serve as Chief Justice in South Africa’s history. The Commission highlighted this as a landmark achievement for the country.

President Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation for the confidence placed in Justice Maya by the Judicial Service Commission and political leaders, emphasizing the support and inspiration she will draw from this recognition.

Justice Maya’s appointment aligns with the provisions of Section 174(3) of the South African Constitution, marking a new chapter in the country’s judicial history.