The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has resolved to recommend Gauteng Judge President Dunstan Mlambo for the position of Deputy Chief Justice of South Africa. This recommendation follows two days of interviews with shortlisted candidates, including Mlambo, Free State Judge President Cagney Musi, and Northern Cape Judge President Pule Tlaletsi. A fourth nominee, Supreme Court of Appeal Justice Mahube Molemela, withdrew before the interviews[1][5][6].
Mlambo, who leads the largest division of the High Court in South Africa, was recognized by the JSC for his extensive judicial experience and reform initiatives, such as the implementation of a virtual case management system (“caselines”) and mandatory mediation in civil trials—measures designed to address the substantial backlog in the courts[1].
His leadership style, described as inclusive and team-oriented, was highlighted during the interviews. Mlambo expressed his commitment to accountability and innovation in the judiciary, aligning his philosophy with that of Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, under whose leadership the position of Deputy Chief Justice has been vacant since her elevation to head the Constitutional Court[6].
The JSC’s decision will now be submitted as a formal report to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who retains the final authority to appoint the next Deputy Chief Justice. This appointment process has attracted public and political attention, with some opposition, notably from the MK Party, whose parliamentary leader—former Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe—has formally objected to Mlambo’s recommendation[3].
The selection process and its outcomes underscore ongoing debates about access to justice, court management, and judicial transformation in South Africa[4][7].
References
- [1] JSC to recommend Gauteng Judge President Mlambo as next deputy chief justice
- [3] MK Party rejects Mlambo’s recommendation as Deputy Chief Justice
- [4] JUDGE DUNSTAN MLAMBO VIES FOR DCJ POST
- [5] JSC recommends Judge President Mlambo for Deputy Chief Justice
- [6] JSC to recommend Judge President Mlambo as next Deputy Chief Justice
- [7] JSC Interviews | Constitution not a reality for parts of society