President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed the country's first female Chief Justice, Judge Mandisa Maya. He made the announcement yesterday through a statement released by his office.

A THOROUGH PROCESS

The Presidency explained that Judge Maya's appointment follows an interview with the Justice Service Commission on May 21 as part of the process to gauge her suitability for the position. The Presidency said that before appointing Maya, Ramaphosa consulted with the Judicial Service Commission and the leaders of political parties represented in the National Assembly. "The President invited the Judicial Service Commission to provide its views on the suitability of Justice Maya to hold the office of Chief Justice. Maya will resume her position on 1 September, replacing Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, whose term ends on 31 August," the statement said.

SHE QUALIFIES

Maya was appointed Deputy Chief Justice in September last year after she was interviewed by the Judicial Service Commission. The Judicial Service Commission confirmed to Ramaphosa that Judge Maya is suitable to lead the judiciary in the country. Her qualifications and judicial record, her leadership qualities and her experience as a judge in various courts. "The Commissioners also advised that Justice Maya's appointment would be a significant milestone for the country as Justice Maya would be the first woman in South Africa to be appointed Chief Justice," the Presidency said.