11 March 2022

The South African Communist Party (SACP) welcomes the appointment of the new Chief Justice by President Cyril Ramaphosa. In terms of the powers and functions of the President as prescribed in the Constitution of the Republic, the President appointed Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo to serve as the new Chief Justice. Justice Zondo brings with him experience and continuity and his track record speaks for itself. This includes the sterling work he has done and standing for principle as the Chairperson of the judicial commission of inquiry into allegations of state capture and other forms of corruption.

The SACP further welcomes the President's intention to nominate the President of the Supreme Court of Appeal Mandisa Maya to serve as the new Deputy Chief Justice. Maya is bringing with her experience and capacity from the Supreme Court of Appeals, first and foremost. In addition, the decision will contribute to South Africa's national imperative of transformation in gender relations, especially towards building equity in key centres of power and decision-making.