The Judicial Service Commission’s April 2026 interviews come at a critical moment for South Africa’s judiciary. With 31 candidates vying for 15 vacancies, the JSC’s decisions will signal whether it is ready to strengthen judicial capacity, improve accountability, and rebuild public trust, or risk further undermining the system.
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.
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.
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.
The JSC interviews April 2025 will focus on filling key vacancies at the Electoral and Labour Courts. Judges Matter’s latest submission raises concerns about judicial discipline, unfilled posts, and the need for a code of conduct.
The JSC October interviews brought significant judicial appointments, a spotlight on leadership, and challenges around candidate selection, setting the stage for a strengthened judiciary under Chief Justice Mandisa Maya’s guidance.
Now chaired by Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, the JSC faces political challenges and new members. This critical round of appointments will shape South Africa’s judiciary and test the JSC’s credibility.
Media Advisory: October 2024 Media accreditation for October 2024 JSC Interviews. Deadline 3 October 2024.
Judicial Service Commission’s Decision on the postponement of the next sitting of the JSC, scheduled for 7 –16 October 2024.
The Judicial Service Commission has amended its questionnaire for new judges aligning closely with the recommendations of Judges Matter.
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