The office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) has slammed the ANC for using the image of Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya for their political promotion on their election poster. OCJ said in a statement yesterday that the use of Maya's image was inappropriate and that it has the potential to bring the Judiciary into disrepute.

THE ?INAPPROPRIATE' POSTER 

In a poster shared on social media on Saturday morning, the ANC wrote: "Don't let your voice go unheard. Register to vote ANC in your community and in South Africa." The OCJ instructed the party to delete the post as the ANC was not authorised by Maya or her office for her image to be used. "For the record, Deputy Chief Justice Maya is not a member of the ANC or any political party. This unauthorised use of the deputy chief justice's image has the potential to unduly bring the judiciary into disrepute as well as undermining the integrity of the judiciary. Section 165(2) of the constitution provides that the courts are independent and subject only to the constitution and the law, which they must apply without fear, favour, or prejudice," the OCJ said.

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APOLOGISING AND TAKING THE POSTER DOWN 

The ANC has since taken the poster down and publicly apologised, saying their intention was to celebrate transformation including the judiciary where Justice Maya is respected. "The ANC regrets any offence caused to Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya when a poster with her image was posted on our X page without her consent," the ruling party said after much criticism. The ruling party went on to say the poster was intended to celebrate the significant progress and transformation made in all areas of society, including the judiciary. The DA said while the ANC has apologised for the misuse of Maya's image, it is essential to emphasise that an apology alone cannot erase the severe damage caused by such actions. "The ANC's blatant disregard for the independence and credibility of the judiciary is a matter of great concern. The DA calls on the ANC to demonstrate maturity and emotional intelligence in their production of marketing material. Exploiting the image of one of the most senior office-bearers in South Africa for political gain is not only disrespectful to the Deputy Chief Justice personally but also poses a significant threat to the overall credibility of the Judiciary," the party said.