Historic Appointment: South Africa Names First Female Chief Justice

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Mandisa Maya as the first female chief justice of South Africa, effective Sept. 1. Maya, currently the deputy chief justice, will succeed Raymond Zondo. This decision marks a historical milestone for the nation's judiciary, highlighting progress in gender representation.

(Adds details, context throughout) JOHANNESBURG, July 25 (Reuters) -

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday named Mandisa Maya as the first female chief justice, effective on Sept. 1, following consultations with the Judicial Service Commission. This is a significant milestone for the country, the presidency said in a statement.

Maya, the current deputy chief justice, will replace Raymond Zondo, whose term ends on Aug. 31.

(With inputs from agencies.)