South Africa will see its first black female chief justice by 1st September this year, as President Cyril Ramaphosa has, in terms of Section 174(3) of the Constitution, appointed current Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya as Chief Justice of the country, upon the expiry of the term of office of Chief Justice Zondo by 31 August 2024. The appointment follows the president’s consultation, in accordance with constitutional prescripts.
Sonke welcomes this appointment as it is a great milestone for the country as an appointment of its first kind. Bafana Khumalo, Sonke Gender Justice’s Co-Executive Director says, “This appointment breaks the proverbial glass ceiling in the judiciary, sending a clear message that there should be no barriers for all South Africans to rise to high offices. Justice Maya has acquitted herself well as she rose within the ranks of the judiciary and demonstrated excellent acumen as a capable jurist. Her rise will serve as a beacon of hope for many, especially young girls who aspire to be engaged in the judiciary, that it is possible. We wish her well in her tenure as she proceeds with her vision of transforming the judiciary.”
Maya, who has previously held the position of President of the Supreme Court of Appeal, brings a wealth of experience to the court and an understanding of legal leadership. During her interview, she vouched for the increase of judges in the constitutional court to expedite court application processes.
Issued by Sonke Gender Justice.
For media enquiries contact:
Kgomotso Mophulane, Communications & Strategic Information Manager, Sonke Gender Justice on kgomotso@genderjustice.org.za or 0835196187.
Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director, Sonke Gender Justice on bafana@genderjustice.org.za or 082 5784479.
Note to editors
Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation. For media releases, reports and news visit https://genderjustice.org.za/ and https://genderjustice.org.za/newsletter-signup/
