JSC names ConCourt shortlist

2009-09-22 22:41

Johannesburg - The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) shortlisted seven people on Tuesday to fill four posts on the Constitutional Court.

They are Judges Johan Froneman, Raymond Zondo, Mogoeng wa Mogoeng, Mandisa Maya, Sisi Khampepe, Leona Theron and Chris Jafta.

Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe was among those who did not make the list.

Others not shortlisted include lawyers Geoff Budlender and Jeremy Gauntlett and judges Dennis Davis and Kathy Satchwell, Willie Seriti and Dunston Mlambo.

The seven names will be forwarded to President Jacob Zuma who will make his recommendations.

The commission interviewed candidates over three days in Kliptown, Soweto.

Running until late on Sunday and Monday, the commissioners pressed on, with chief Justice Pius Langa conducting his last session as chairperson of the JSC.  Justice Minister Jeff Radebe was at his side.

Quiz time

The candidates were quizzed on their qualifications, their experience and their approach to legal matters, as the public and family members sat and watched.

Determined to finish the interviews on time, Langa pushed through the list of candidates, allowing only short breaks.

Langa was thanked for his "exemplary leadership" at the end of the interviews.

"It is my view that you have carried the cross with great fortitude and admirable courage, even during turbulent times," said ANC MP Ngoako Ramatlhodi.

Inkatha Freedom Party MP Koos van der Merwe said the party agreed "100%" with Ramatlhodi.

"We are losing a giant," he said.

Hlophe matter

Hlophe's name featured in many of the questions put to the candidates - with many of the commissioners asking about their relationship with Hlophe after he emerged from a complaint and counter-complaint involving the Constitutional Court judges.

The candidates were also asked if they had thought of withdrawing or had been persuaded to stay in the race after reports that former Constitutional Court judge Johann Kriegler wanted to have a court review the JSC's decision not to go further with the Hlophe complaint.

Constitutional Court Judge Sandile Ngcobo was also interviewed after being nominated by Zuma to succeed Langa.
 

- SAPA