Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has opened consultations with the Chief Justice and leaders of all political parties on the appointment of a new Constitutional Court judge.
"Zuma has written to the parties represented in the National Assembly to consult them on the appointment of a judge of the Constitutional Court," Zuma's office said on Thursday.
The vacancy arose as a result of the discharge from active service of former Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo.
In terms of section 174(4) of the Constitution, the President must first consult the Chief Justice and the leaders of parties represented in the National Assembly before he makes his appointment.
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has already prepared a list of nominees. Judges Lebotsang Orphan Bosielo, Robert Wolseley Nugent, Raymond Mnyamezeli Mlungisi Zondo and Mandisa Muriel Lindelwa Maya have been shortlisted.
The President has requested that the Chief Justice and the leaders of political parties furnish him their views and comments for his consideration, by no later than July 16.
