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

This month, President Cyril Ramaphosa submitted a shortlist of four candidates to the JSC for the Deputy Chief Justice role.

The candidates nominated 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 that it had received a letter from Judge Molemela declining her nomination while reaffirming her commitment to the Supreme Court of Appeal.

“The other 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 along with all necessary documentation typical for those seeking appointment as Judges.”

In its call for feedback, the JSC highlighted: “Legal bodies, the general public, and any other institutions interested in the work of the JSC are invited to submit written comments regarding the candidates’ suitability for Deputy Chief Justice, as well as any other relevant information pertinent to the selection process.”

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

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

All submissions must be received by the Secretariat by 27 May 2025.

Comments submitted after the deadline will not be taken into account.