South Africa’s judiciary has been waiting for a key appointment—and now, it’s official. President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Justice Dunstan Mlambo as the country’s new Deputy Chief Justice, stepping into a role that’s been vacant since Mandisa Maya became Chief Justice.
Justice Mlambo Steps Into a Powerful Role
Starting 1 August 2025, Justice Mlambo will officially take up the reins as Deputy Chief Justice of South Africa. This appointment follows Section 174(3) of the Constitution, which lays out the process for such high-level judicial appointments.
Mlambo isn’t new to leadership within the judiciary. Since November 2012, he’s served as Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, one of the most important judicial positions in the country.
A Thorough and Transparent Selection Process
According to a statement from the Presidency, President Ramaphosa took careful steps in making this appointment. He consulted with the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and also considered input from political parties represented in Parliament.
The President also personally informed Chief Justice Mandisa Maya about the appointment and commended the JSC’s transparent and robust process. According to the Presidency, this process reinforced the JSC’s commitment to the country’s constitutional values and ensured that the decision was made with integrity.
Merit, Constitution, and Transformation
The Presidency emphasized that the appointment is built on three pillars—merit, loyalty to the Constitution, and a vision for a transformed and strengthened Judiciary.
The Presidency said this appointment should boost public confidence in the judicial system, reflecting the values of fairness, justice, and long-term vision.
A Word of Thanks to the Incoming Deputy Chief Justice
President Ramaphosa didn’t just make the announcement—he also thanked Justice Mlambo for taking on such a significant role at a critical moment. In the President’s words, Mlambo is expected to strengthen the rule of law, enrich South Africa’s jurisprudence, and uphold the rights of all citizens.
A Vacancy Finally Filled
This important role had remained empty ever since Justice Mandisa Maya was promoted to Chief Justice, following Raymond Zondo’s retirement last year. Many had wondered when it would be filled—and now the answer is clear.
JSC Had Already Recommended Mlambo
Just a few weeks ago, the JSC publicly endorsed Justice Mlambo for the position following formal interviews. Earlier in April, four candidates had been nominated by the President, with Mlambo emerging as the standout.