The Presidency responds to opposition statement on Chief Justice Nominee

The Presidency has noted a press statement released jointly by the Democratic Alliance, Congress of the People and the Independent Democrats calling on President Jacob Zuma to withdraw his nomination for Chief Justice (see here).

The Presidency wishes to reiterate the following:

• The President has not appointed a Chief Justice.
• The President has nominated someone for the position of Chief Justice. There is nothing in the Constitution or law that prevents the President from indicating who his nominee is.
• The President has initiated processes to consult with the Judicial Service Commission and the leaders represented in the National Assembly on his nominee, as required by the Constitution.

President Jacob Zuma made this plain when he addressed the National Press Club in Tshwane yesterday (see address). For the record, he said:

"I have decided to nominate Justice Sandile Ngcobo as the next Chief Justice since Chief Justice Pius Langa is due to retire. I have requested advice from the Judicial Services Commission and leaders of political parties represented in the National Assembly in this regard."

Statement issued by The Presidency, August 7 2009

Click here to sign up to receive our free daily headline email newsletter