Opinion Pieces - Becoming A Judge In South Africa

Fewer appointments, higher standards: What the October 2025 JSC session revealed

The JSC’s October 2025 interviews marked real progress in raising standards and enforcing ethics in judicial appointments, but gaps in voting procedures and accountability still undermine the process.

Misconduct Tribunals and the Sexual Harassment Policy

The Judicial Conduct Tribunal against Judge President Selby Mbenenge highlights why South Africa’s judiciary must enforce its new Sexual Harassment Policy to ensure accountability, respect, and equality in the courts.

[MEDIA STATEMENT] Madlanga Commission

Judges Matter calls on witnesses at the Madlanga Commission to provide evidence to substantiate allegations of judicial misconduct, enabling formal action by the Judicial Service Commission and Magistrates Commission to protect the integrity and independence of South Africa’s judiciary.

October 2025 JSC Interviews: Filling the Apex bench and beyond

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) begins its final 2025 interviews in Sandton to fill 23 judicial vacancies across nine courts, including two long-awaited seats at the Constitutional Court. With Chief Justice Mandisa Maya leading her first full October round, the JSC faces a key test of credibility, capacity, and commitment to strengthening South Africa’s judiciary.

Webinar: Judicial Independence and Governance Reform

Judges Matter hosts Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi to discuss President Ramaphosa’s plans for judicial reform, the transfer of the magistracy to the Office of the Chief Justice, and the future of judicial independence in South Africa.

Winners of Judges Matter Essay Writing Competition 2025

Announcing the Winners of the 2025 Judges Matter Prize for Excellent Writing on the Judiciary Judges Matter is delighted to announce the winners of the 2025 Judges Matter Prize for Excellent Writing on the Judiciary. First launched in 2021, this annual competition inspires critical thinking and academic engagement with the most pressing issues affecting South […]

South Africa hosts the J20

South Africa hosts the J20 summit of top judges, spotlighting global judicial independence, rule of law, AI, and climate change justice.

Taking stock of Chief Justice Mandisa Maya’s first year in office

Chief Justice Mandisa Maya’s first year has been marked by major strides, including a breakthrough on judicial independence and a long-awaited sexual harassment policy. Yet concerns remain about slow reforms to the misconduct system, ongoing JSC credibility issues, and her limited presence at the Constitutional Court.