Pretoria: President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed judges to various divisions across the country.

According to South African Government News Agency, the appointments were made in terms of section 174(6) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, and on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission. The Presidency stated that the appointments were made to "ensure courts have the necessary capacity to administer justice."

The judicial appointments include Madam Justice Thandi Victoria Norman as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal, effective from 15 May 2026, and Mr Justice Bashier Vally, who will also join the Supreme Court of Appeal starting 01 June 2026. Similarly, Madam Justice Leonie Windell is set to become a Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal on 01 June 2026.

In the Gauteng Division of the High Court, Mr Justice Aubrey Phage Ledwaba has been appointed as Judge President, effective from 15 May 2026. Meanwhile, Ms Nolubabalo Cengani-Mbakaza will serve as a Judge of the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court, Mthatha, beginning 01 July 2026.

Further appointments to the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court, Makhanda, include Advocate Sally Ann Collett and Professor Nomthandazo Patience Ntlama-Makhanya, effective from 01 July 2026 and 01 August 2026, respectively.

In the Western Cape Division of the High Court, Mr Rodges Deon Barendse will assume his role on 01 June 2026, alongside Advocate Ncumisa Thoko Mayosi and Advocate Pinda Njokweni, who will also start on the same date. Advocate Diane Margaret Davis SC is scheduled to begin her duties on 01 July 2026, and Advocate Phillipa Susan Van Zyl will take her position on 01 June 2026.

The President extended his well wishes to the newly appointed judges as they take on their responsibilities.