South Africa Appoints First Female Chief Justice: A Historic Milestone

South Africa has appointed Mandisa Maya, the country's first female chief justice. Currently serving as deputy chief justice, Maya will take over from retiring Chief Justice Raymond Zondo on Sept. 1. A former president of the Supreme Court of Appeal, Maya's appointment marks a significant milestone in the nation's judicial history.

In a historic move, South Africa has named Mandisa Maya as its first female chief justice, marking a significant milestone in the country's judicial history.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced Maya's appointment, highlighting her impressive career and commitment to justice. Currently the deputy chief justice, Maya will succeed Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, who is retiring, on Sept. 1.

Maya's judicial career is distinguished by a series of firsts: she was the first Black woman appointed to the Supreme Court of Appeal and later became its first female president. Maya's nomination for the chief justice role was recommended by the Judicial Services Commission in May, following her nomination in February.

Raised in South Africa's Eastern Cape province, Maya achieved a Fulbright Scholarship to study law at Duke University in the U.S. during the apartheid era, making her accomplishments even more remarkable. Initially intending to pursue medicine, Maya switched to law after her first day at university, altering her career path and ultimately making history.

Ever since the role of chief justice was established in 1910, it had been held exclusively by men. Maya's appointment as the eighth chief justice since the advent of democracy in 1994 represents a groundbreaking step towards gender equality in South Africa's judiciary.

(With inputs from agencies.)