Maya pays tribute to outgoing Chief Justice Zondo: 'We thank you for your astute leadership'

JOHANNESBURG - Incoming Chief Justice Mandisa Maya has paid tribute to the incumbent, Raymond Zondo.

She said Zondo has devoted his life to the service of the nation.

Zondo is set to retire at the end of August.

Maya, who is currently the Deputy Chief Justice, took to the podium briefly at the Constitutional Court in Braamfontein on Friday - ahead of Zondo's presentation of the 2022/2023 Annual Judiciary Report.

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"Chief Justice, we thank you for your immense contribution to the jurisprudence and the development of the law of this country, your astute leadership throughout your tenure as the head of the judiciary, and for never hesitating to roll up your sleeves and getting your hands dirty where necessary in service to our beautiful country. But I will stop here for now as there will be a proper occasion to bid you farewell - I don't want to start crying," she said.

At the same time, Zondo also congratulated Maya on her appointment and thanked her for her support during his term, calling it historic.