Kaya News Reporter
Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng has hung up his gown and put down his judges gavel as he retires.
After 10 years at the helm of the Constitutional Court, he joins Justices Sisi Khampepe, and Chris Jafta in retirement.
President Ramaphosa praised Justice Mogoeng’s contribution, leadership and service wishing him well on his retirement.
“Today we pay tribute to Chief Justice Mogoeng for endowing South African jurisprudence and the democratic order more broadly with judicial integrity and resilience. Which has impacted positively on the lives of citizens and advanced accountability.
Chief Justice Mogoeng’s leadership inspired a judiciary that was fearless in holding those in power accountable. He was empathetic to the plight of individuals and groups in our society,” Ramaphosa said.
Justice Mogoeng took the helm at the ConCourt in September 2011. He began his tenure after much controversy around his appointment.
He was favoured by then President Jacob Zuma to preside over the ConCourt and many questioned his suitability.
But he soon won over the favour of South Africans for his ability to speak out against corruption.
His judgement on Nkandla in 2016 was a crucial ruling in his term as Chief Justice, providing a turning point on accountability.
He ruled that Zuma had flouted his constitutional duty and was held liable to pay back some of the public funds used to make improvements to his Nkandla homestead.
The presidency will be looking for his replacement in the coming weeks.
A list of 8 successful candidates were nominated for consideration. South Africans have until 15 October to submit their objections to the list. Thereafter, a nominations panel will shortlist 3 to 5 names which will be presented to Ramaphosa.
