Johannesburg: The Companies Tribunal has expressed its approval regarding the appointment of five new judges, highlighting how their inclusion is set to significantly enhance the tribunal’s ability to resolve matters expeditiously. With the appointments of Judges Mohammed Navsa, Kathleen Satchwell, Robert Nugent, Boissie Henry Mbha, and Visvanathan Ponnan, the Tribunal anticipates an elevation in its arbitration and alternative dispute resolution functions.

According to South African Government News Agency, the Tribunal emphasized that these judges bring with them extensive experience in complex decision-making, high-level dispute mediation, and principled judgment application. This expertise is expected to bolster the Tribunal’s ability to resolve disputes swiftly, impartially, and in a way that increases confidence in its ADR mechanism.

The Tribunal noted that the collective expertise, distinguished judicial careers, and commitment to justice of these judges will provide renewed strength to the Tribunal at a crucial juncture in its development. These newly appointed members are renowned for their integrity, fairness, and sound legal reasoning, having significantly contributed to South Africa’s jurisprudence, especially in areas closely connected to the Tribunal’s mandate, such as commercial law, administrative justice, and dispute resolution.

Their combined experience is seen as instrumental in further entrenching a culture of accessible, efficient, and equitable justice for companies and stakeholders nationwide. The Tribunal looks forward to the wisdom, leadership, and innovation these judges will bring, advancing its mission of promoting fair, transparent, and developmental business practices in South Africa.

Judge Dennis Davis, Chairperson of the Companies Tribunal, conveyed his confidence that the new appointments will further enrich the Tribunal’s jurisprudence, particularly in the arbitration of company disputes.