The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has congratulated Justice Mandisa Maya on her appointment as the Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court.

‘This historic appointment of Justice Maya as the first woman in this position will serve as an inspiration that gender equality and equity can be achieved through a concerted effort,’ the CGE said in a statement on Friday.

In a significant milestone for the country, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the appointment of current Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, as Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa with effect from 1 September 2024.

In a statement on Thursday, the Presidency said the appointment follows the President’s consultation, in accordance with Constitutional prescripts, with the Judicial Service Commission and the leaders of political parties represented in the National Assembly.

READ | President Ramaphosa appoints Justice Maya as next Chief Justice

The CGE released a report titled ‘Gender Transformation in the Judiciary’ in 2016.

‘The
findings of this report decried amongst others lack gender transformation in the judiciary. The CGE believes that Justice Maya has over the years displayed strong leadership qualities since she became a member of the bench, and this will serve as a catalyst for her to do exceptionally well.

‘The CGE believes that the Commission’s report on transformation in the judiciary has decried lack of gender transformation in the judiciary, and this appointment is the first step in addressing that imbalance.’

It further added that Maya’s appointment will go a long way in ensuring that more women are considered for senior positions in the judiciary.

Source: South African Government News Agency