Today’s Sitting and Judgment Mark the End of Zondo’s Judicial Career That Spanned 27 Years

After 27 years of dedicated service to the South African judiciary, Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo has reached the end of his judicial career. Today, as he presides over his final sitting and delivers his last judgment, we reflect on the remarkable legacy that he leaves behind.

Zondo’s journey in the legal profession began in 1994 when he was appointed as a judge of the High Court in KwaZulu-Natal. His passion for justice and unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law quickly earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and the public.

In 1997, Zondo was appointed as a judge of the Labour Appeal Court and in 1999, he was elevated to the position of Judge President of the Labour Court. His expertise in labour law and his fair and impartial approach to cases made him a highly sought-after judge in the country.

In 2012, Zondo was appointed as a judge of the Constitutional Court, the highest court in the land. His appointment was widely celebrated as he brought with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in the legal field. During his time at the Constitutional Court, Zondo served as acting Chief Justice on numerous occasions, showcasing his leadership skills and ability to handle complex and high-profile cases.

But it was in 2018, when Zondo was appointed as the Deputy Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court, that he truly made his mark on the South African legal system. As the second-highest ranking judge in the country, Zondo played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the judiciary and upholding the principles of justice and equality for all.

Throughout his career, Zondo has been known for his integrity, impartiality, and dedication to the law. He has presided over some of the most significant cases in South African history, including the Arms Deal Commission of Inquiry and the State Capture Commission of Inquiry. His meticulous approach to these cases and his unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth have earned him the trust and respect of the South African public.

Zondo’s impact on the legal profession extends beyond his role as a judge. He has also been a mentor and role model to many young lawyers and judges, inspiring them to uphold the values of justice and fairness in their own careers. His dedication to the development of the legal profession has been recognized by the Law Society of South Africa, who awarded him with the prestigious Legal Excellence Award in 2016.

As Zondo prepares to retire from the bench, his legacy will continue to live on through the many landmark judgments he has delivered and the impact he has had on the legal system. His unwavering commitment to justice and his tireless efforts to uphold the rule of law have left an indelible mark on the South African judiciary.

Today’s sitting and judgment mark the end of an era in the South African legal system. But as we bid farewell to Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, we also celebrate the incredible legacy he leaves behind. His dedication, integrity, and unwavering commitment to justice will continue to inspire future generations of lawyers and judges in our country.

In his final judgment, Zondo reminded us that “the Constitution is the supreme law of the Republic and all conduct and legislation must be in line with it.” These words serve as a powerful reminder of the important role that the judiciary plays in upholding the principles of democracy and protecting the rights of all citizens.

As we say goodbye to Deputy Chief Justice Zondo, we thank him for his invaluable contribution to the South African legal system and wish him all the best in his future endeavors. His legacy will continue to guide us as we strive towards a more just and equal society for all.