Pretoria: President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Justice Dunstan Mlambo as Deputy Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa, effective from Friday, 1 August 2025. The appointment aligns with section 174(3) of the Constitution.
According to South African Government News Agency, Justice Mlambo has served as Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court of South Africa since November 2012. President Ramaphosa informed Chief Justice Mandisa Maya in writing that he considered the views of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and political parties in the National Assembly before making the appointment, as per a statement from the Presidency on Thursday night.
The President also acknowledged the transparent, inclusive, and robust process undertaken by the JSC, which demonstrated the Commission's dedication to upholding constitutional values. The Presidency stated that the Commission's approach has reinforced national confidence that the Deputy Chief Justice's appointment is based on merit, fidelity to the Constitution, and a vision for the Judiciary's transformation and strengthening.
President Ramaphosa extended his gratitude to Justice Mlambo for accepting this significant national responsibility and expressed his best wishes for Justice Mlambo's efforts in strengthening the rule of law, enriching jurisprudence, and ensuring citizens' rights. The Deputy Chief Justice position became vacant when then Deputy Chief Justice, Mandisa Maya, ascended to Chief Justice following Chief Justice Raymond Zondo's retirement last year.
Earlier this month, the JSC recommended Justice Mlambo for the Deputy Chief Justice role following interviews for the position. In April, President Ramaphosa nominated four candidates, including Justice Mlambo, for consideration.