For fans of the former Deputy Chief Justice of South Africa, Raymond Zondo, there’s reason to rejoice, as he’s been officially announced as the current Chief Justice of the Rainbow Nation, putting an end to rumors.
On if he might be confirmed as Chief Justice or not, opinions had been divided. But President Cyril Ramaphosa put an end to all the speculations by finally announcing him as Chief Justice yesterday, Thursday 10 March.
Prior to the final confirmation, Zondo had been in acting capacity in that position. He had also headed the State Capture Commission, which was also named for him, the Zondo Commission, because it bears his name.
The commission was charged with probing how a few crooked actors had apparently pocketed South Africa as a nation.
Zondo wasn’t just picked for the new position, however. He had been interviewed for the Chief Justice position alongside Gauteng Judge President, Dunstan Mlambo and Supreme Court of Appeal Judge President, Mandisa Maya.
President Ramaphosa opted for Zondo, however. Commenting on the appointment, President Ramaphosa had expressed confidence Justice Zondo, as champions of human rights of all South Africans, will acquit himself in his new position.
While some South Africans have praised his appointment, others think it wasn’t done on merit.
Raymond Zondo was not appointed on merit it was a political appointment to save Ramaphosa this doesn't need a genius to figure it out . RIP South Africa💔 pic.twitter.com/MMBYXtGbwE
— Battalion 54 (@54Battalion) March 11, 2022
