Raymond Zondo appointed as the new Chief Justice

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Photo: Presidency SA

This is despite the recommendation that was put forward to the President by the panel at JSC giving their support to Justice Mandisa Maya.

Despite her also being well qualified for the post, the panel were also of the view that perhaps it is about time the country gets the first woman Chief Justice in history.

The interviews where also marred with controversies with Justice Zondo being accused of being pro President Ramaphosa and against former President Jacob Zuma and people who are seen to be connected to him. Zondo has however dismissed these claims and said the law needs to be respected and practiced at all times irrespective of the person social standing or position they occupy.

But Zondo’s appointment was obviously met with mixed reactions many of which were from NGO’S in his support as well as some political parties.

Those who were not in his support were of the view that this is probably one of the ways for President Ramaphosa to keep himself surrounded by his loyalists taking in consideration cases like Bosasa and CR17 documents that are to this date yet to be made public.

Ramaphosa said he believes Zondo is probably the best candidate. He has been in the judiciary for over 20 years. Justice Mandisa Maya is apparently set to be appointed as the Deputy Chief Justice, she now holds the Presidency post at the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA)