Jacob Zuma Foundation Criticises President Ramaphosa’s Chief Justice Appointment

Originally posted on Briefly News, the Jacob Zuma Foundation has raised concerns and criticisms regarding President Cyril Ramaphosa’s choice for the position of Chief Justice.

More than a year after President Ramaphosa appointed Raymond Zondo as the Chief Justice of South Africa, the Jacob Zuma Foundation contends that Judge Mandisa Maya, Zondo’s deputy, should have been selected for the role.

According to the Presidency, Ramaphosa made the appointment following Section 174(3) of the Constitution.

However, the Jacob Zuma Foundation argues that Ramaphosa’s decision violated the Constitution by overlooking Judge Maya and appointing Zondo instead.

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Following the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) interviews, the committee recommended Judge Maya for the position. Nonetheless, this recommendation was not binding. The Foundation is now seeking a declaration that Zondo’s appointment is unconstitutional.

Mzwanele Manyi, the Foundation’s spokesperson, asserts that President Ramaphosa should address allegations that Zondo’s appointment was a reward for absolving him of wrongdoing in the Bosasa and C17 bank statements saga. Manyi further emphasises that the President must explain why he bypassed a woman candidate, stating, “Such conduct is indeed in breach of the equality clause of the constitution.”

In response, some South Africans have criticised the Jacob Zuma Foundation, labelling its actions as politically motivated and futile. Others believe that the Foundation is late in raising these concerns.

Judge President Mandisa Maya, the only female candidate interviewed for the Chief Justice position, previously expressed frustration when asked if South Africa was ready for its first female Chief Justice. She highlighted that she is not alone in holding this opinion.

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Picture: X / JohanLorenzen

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