Former Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng departed in October 2021, leaving the position vacant.
Following that, President Cyril Ramaphosa invited the public to suggest candidates, and more than 500 names were submitted.
Acting Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, Constitutional Court Judge Mbuyiseli Madlanga, Gauteng High Court Judge President Dunstan Mlambo, and Supreme Court of Appeal President Mandisa Maya are among those vying for the position.
Judge Madlanga is the first to be interviewed with Deputy President of the Supreme Court of Appeal Xola Petse presiding over proceedings.
CHIEF JUSTICE: RAMAPHOSA TO MAKE ULTIMATE DECISION
The appointment of South Africa’s Chief Justice will be decided by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who will have to choose from the candidates.
This is according to Judges Matter, a local organisation.
“Although the JSC’s views and recommendations on each candidate are important, they are nevertheless not binding on the President. However, this does not mean that he can completely disregard them. If, for example, the JSC raises serious concerns about a particular candidate, the president must take these concerns seriously and explain why, despite the JSC’s misgivings, he still decided to appoint the candidate. Should he fail to do so, this decision would be deemed irrational in law and may be set aside by a court”
Other people who were nominated for the post include Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane and Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe.