Justice Maya’s appointment hailed as a fitting feat

July 26, 2024 161

The South African Women Lawyers Association (SAWLA) has described incoming Chief Justice Mandisa Maya’s appointment as a fitting feat for someone whose career has been filled with many milestones.

One of her most notable feats was her serving as the first female president of the Supreme Court of Appeal from 2017 until her appointment as Deputy Chief Justice in July 2022.

Yesterday, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the 60-year-old’s appointment as the head of the country’s judiciary, effective from the 1st of September.

She takes over incumbent Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo, whose term comes to an end next month.

Speaking to YNews, SAWLA’s Advocate Zodwa Maluleke they are confident that she will lift those who will follow after her.

Advocate Maluleke is also upbeat that Justice Maya will be able to eliminate the suppression of women in the judiciary.

SAWLA says while they might not have had one on one engagements on the topic, through their conferences and judicial meetings, they’ve picked up her views on issues facing women in their field and how to tackle them.

Advocate Maluleke says the existing male dominance will not thrive under Justice Maya.

When it comes to ethics, SAWLA says they are aware of the Justice’s ethics and as a result, they don’t have any worries about her ever-making bias decisions – solely based on race and gender.

Political parties and civic organisations have also thrown their weight behind Justice Maya.

Judiciary Watchdog, Judges Matter, says her appointment to the top judicial position is significant as it coincides with the country’s 30 years of democracy.

Judges Matter’s researcher, Mbekezeli Benjamin, says despite their support of her leadership, they will not tire of holding Maya accountable in making sure she executes her mandate.

The ANC has hailed her appointment as an affirmation of the party’s commitment to gender equality and advancing women’s leadership roles across the board.

The ANC welcomes the President’s appointment of Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya as Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa, effective 1 September 2024.#LetsDoMoreTogether https://t.co/6yvZfvqVpu pic.twitter.com/IggcFkSkqd

— African National Congress (@MYANC) July 25, 2024

The EFF says this is testament to Maya’s dedication to the rule of law, describing Justice Maya as a beacon of justice and an advocate for the marginalised.

Salute Chief Justice Mandisa Maya!

Notably, Chief Justice Maya is the founder of the South African Chapter of the International Association of Women Judges, showcasing her commitment to gender equality in the judiciary.

She holds the distinction of delivering the first… pic.twitter.com/b8nYrCvQb2

— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) July 26, 2024

The DA congratulates Justice Mandisa Maya on her appointment as the new Chief Justice.

Justice Maya is the first woman in SA to be appointed Chief Justice.

The DA wishes her well as she takes up this role. We will play our part in defending the independence of the judiciary. pic.twitter.com/S2Agb8VuaK

— Democratic Alliance (@Our_DA) July 25, 2024

Written by: Nokwazi Qumbisa

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