President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially appointed Justice Dunstan Mlambo as the Deputy Chief Justice of South Africa, effective from Friday, 1 August 2025. The decision was made in line with section 174(3) of the Constitution.
Justice Mlambo has been serving as Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court since November 2012.
His appointment fills the vacancy left after Chief Justice Mandisa Maya was elevated from Deputy Chief Justice following the retirement of former Chief Justice Raymond Zondo in 2024.
According to the Presidency, the appointment followed a thorough and inclusive process led by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), which recently recommended Mlambo for the position after conducting interviews earlier this year.
President Ramaphosa had initially nominated four candidates in April, with Justice Mlambo emerging as the Commission’s preferred choice.
In communicating the decision to Chief Justice Maya, the President acknowledged the JSC’s role in ensuring a fair and transparent process.
The Presidency highlighted that the appointment reflects the values of merit, constitutional integrity, and a commitment to the ongoing transformation of the Judiciary.
President Ramaphosa also extended his gratitude to Justice Mlambo for accepting the role, expressing confidence in his ability to uphold the rule of law, contribute to the country’s legal development, and defend the rights of all South Africans.
