JSC Invites Public and Legal Community Input on Deputy Chief Justice Nominations

Johannesburg – The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is calling upon the public, legal organizations, and other interested individuals to share their feedback on the suitability of candidates nominated for the position of Deputy Chief Justice.

Earlier this month, President Cyril Ramaphosa presented a list of four candidates to the JSC for the Deputy Chief Justice role.

The nominees proposed by President Ramaphosa are Judge President of the Gauteng High Court Dunstan Mlambo; President of the Supreme Court Mahube Betty Molemela; Judge President Cagney John Musi; and Judge President Lazarus Pule Tlaletsi.

However, on 29 April 2025, the JSC announced the receipt of a letter from Judge Molemela, who declined her nomination and reaffirmed her commitment to the Supreme Court of Appeal.

“The remaining nominees, Judges President Mlambo, Musi, and Tlaletsi, have accepted their nominations,” the JSC stated on Tuesday, 6 May 2025.

“Furthermore, they have completed the required questionnaire for Judges as well as all necessary documentation typically required for those seeking judicial appointments.”

In its request for comments, the JSC emphasized: “Legal entities, the public, and any other organizations interested in the JSC’s work are urged to submit written feedback regarding the appropriateness of the President’s nominees for Deputy Chief Justice and any additional relevant information regarding the selection process.”

Submissions should be directed to the JSC Secretariat at MSongca@judiciary.org.za and TPhaahlamohlaka@judiciary.org.za, with a copy to JSC@judiciary.org.za.

Comments for each nominee must be submitted on separate pages in both PDF and Word formats.

All submissions should reach the Secretariat by 27 May 2025.

Comments submitted after the deadline will not be considered.