Chief Justice Raymond Zondo
By Mpho Moloi
Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, who has served South Africa’s judiciary with distinction for 27 and a half years, is set to deliver his final judgment on 21 August 2024, marking the conclusion of an illustrious career on the bench. This historic moment will be observed during a Special Ceremonial Sitting of the Constitutional Court, where members of the Executive, Parliament, and the legal profession will come together to honour his contributions.
Justice Zondo, known for his unwavering commitment to justice, has had a profound impact on South Africa’s legal landscape. His judicial journey began in 1997 when he was appointed as a Judge of the Labour Court. His leadership qualities quickly became evident, leading to his appointment as Judge-President of the Labour Appeal Court and Labour Court in 1999. Over the years, Zondo has been instrumental in advancing racial and gender transformation within the judiciary, particularly during his tenure at the Labour Appeal Court.
In 2012, Justice Zondo was appointed to the Constitutional Court, where he served with distinction. His role as Deputy Chief Justice in 2017 further solidified his standing as a key figure in the judiciary. However, it was his appointment as the Chairperson of the State Capture Commission in January 2018 that brought him into the national spotlight. The Commission, often referred to as the Zondo Commission, played a pivotal role in uncovering the depths of corruption in South Africa, and Zondo’s leadership was widely praised.
Reflecting on his career, President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of Zondo’s work in combating state capture, stating that “This was no ordinary commission of enquiry. It was a commission whose work will have a lasting impact on our democracy and our country.” Zondo’s tenure as Chief Justice, which began in April 2022, has been marked by his efforts to improve the efficiency and fairness of the judiciary. Under his leadership, the Constitutional Court made significant strides in reducing backlogs and ensuring that justice is accessible to all South Africans.
As Chief Justice Zondo prepares to step down, the judiciary and the nation are reminded of his dedication to upholding the rule of law. His successor, who is yet to be officially appointed, will have the monumental task of continuing Zondo’s legacy of integrity and fairness. Speculation suggests that Justice Mandisa Maya, who was briefly appointed as the Deputy Chief Justice by President Ramaphosa, could be a potential candidate for the role, furthering the strides made in gender representation within the highest courts of the land.
The farewell events for Chief Justice Zondo will include a ceremonial dinner on 20 August 2024, where colleagues and dignitaries will pay tribute to his service. As he delivers his final judgment, Zondo will leave behind a legacy that has shaped the judiciary and strengthened South Africa’s democratic institutions.
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