Ramaphosa Sets Wheels in Motion for Deputy Chief Justice Choice
Something big has been brewing in South Africa’s top courts—since September 2024, the Deputy Chief Justice’s chair has been empty, and everyone’s been watching President Cyril Ramaphosa. After former Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya moved up to take the Chief Justice position, the legal world has been buzzing: who’s next in line?
Ramaphosa isn’t rushing. According to the Constitution, he needs to talk it through—both with the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and with leaders from all political parties in the National Assembly. This is not just a matter of formality. The Deputy Chief Justice isn’t a figurehead. They help steer the legal system, shape how the courts run, and even stand in for the Chief Justice if there’s ever a gap at the top.
Four Heavyweights, One Crucial Pick
This time, four seasoned judges have been put forward. The shortlist includes Gauteng Judge President Dunstan Mlambo, Free State Judge President Mahube Molemela, Northern Cape Judge President Cagney John Musi, and another Free State judge, Lazarus Pule Tlaletsi. Each candidate brings their own track record, reputation, and approach to justice, making it a tough call for the President.
The JSC put the four through their paces in a string of interviews—drilling them about everything from judicial philosophy to handling high-pressure decisions. When the dust settled, the JSC publicly backed Mlambo, who’s well known for his practical leadership in Gauteng, especially during some of the judiciary’s most testing times. Still, that recommendation is just that: a recommendation. The final stamp comes from the President’s office, who can pick from Ramaphosa’s nominated list, with the JSC’s input taken into account but not binding.
During this limbo, Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga has been keeping the seat warm, acting as Deputy Chief Justice. But that’s about to end as well—Madlanga hits his 12-year limit on the Constitutional Court bench in July 2025 and, according to the rules, his term can’t be renewed. This means the clock is ticking for Ramaphosa to find a permanent replacement, someone who can help guide the court through its next chapter.
What makes this appointment even more pressing is the context: South Africa’s judiciary is facing serious public scrutiny. There’s pressure to show independence and resilience, especially with tough court cases and political battles in the headlines. The Deputy Chief Justice has to balance legal acumen, a high tolerance for criticism, and the ability to hold the judiciary’s reputation steady under fire.
Ramaphosa insists the job is not just about technical law—it’s about leading the judiciary, ensuring fair decisions, and maintaining trust in the system. He’s made it clear that he’s consulting widely, determined that the new appointment reflects the gravity and visibility of the post. No matter which way he moves, this pick is bound to set the tone for the Constitutional Court’s direction—and the country’s legal future—for years to come.
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