President Cyril Ramaphosa has begun consultations to appoint South Africa’s new deputy chief justice, a position that has been vacant since September 2024.
The vacancy arose when former Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya was elevated to the role of Chief Justice.
In accordance with Section 174(3) of the Constitution, Ramaphosa is consulting the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and leaders of political parties represented in the National Assembly.
This process is crucial for ensuring transparency and adherence to constitutional principles in the appointment of key judicial figures.
Ramaphosa has submitted a written request to Chief Justice Maya who chairs the JSC, seeking the commission’s views on the suitability of four candidates under consideration.
The nominees include Dunstan Mlambo, Mahube Molemela, Cagney Musi and Lazarus Tlaletsi.
He has also initiated consultations with political leaders in the National Assembly as mandated by the Constitution.
JN/APA