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South Africa Makes History With First Female Chief Justice

12:23, 26 July 2024

Muhammad Nooh Osman

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The appointment of a female Chief Justice marks a major shift in South Africa's legal landscape, as the country has had a male-dominated judiciary since the position of Chief Justice was created in 1910 during the colonial era.

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In a landmark appointment, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has named Mandisa Maya as the country's first female Chief Justice, marking a significant step toward gender equality in the judiciary.

Maya, currently the Deputy Chief Justice, will assume her new role on September 1, succeeding Raymond Zondo, whose term will end on August 31.

This appointment followed consultations with the Judicial Service Commission, which recommended Maya for the position, recognizing its historical significance, Ramaphosa noted.

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Maya previously served as judge president of the Supreme Court of Appeal, the second-highest court in South Africa, becoming the first black woman to be appointed to that position.

Her career has been marked by numerous firsts, including being the first woman to serve as deputy president and then president of the Supreme Court of Appeal.