Media Statements

Minister Masutha fills four critical vacancies in the Magistracy

04 May 2016

The Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Adv. Michael Masutha, MP, has today announced the appointment of Chief Magistrates to fill the vacancies at the Cape Town, Durban, Palm Ridge and Randburg Magistrates Courts.

The appointees are Mr Daniel Mafeleu Thulare (Cape Town), Mr Edmund Bhekumthetho Ngubane (Durban), Ms Elmarie de Klerk (Palm Ridge) and Ms Yoliswa Puleng Sidlova (Randburg).

The appointment of Ms Elmarie de Klerk and Ms Yoliswa Puleng Sidlova is a significant milestone in the transformation of the magistracy as it increases the number of female Chief Magistrates to 12 out of a total of 21 country-wide.

In congratulating the newly appointed Chief Magistrates Minister Masutha said: “I have full confidence that these men and women will not only strive for excellence in the performance outputs of their courts but will also play a critical role in the transformation of the Magistracy. Their appointments could not have come at a better time, particularly when the rationalisation of magisterial districts and legislative reforms aimed to overhaul of the Magistrates Courts Act of 1944 are at the centre stage”.

These appointments follow the recommendation made by the Magistrates Commission which is chaired by Judge Francis Legodi.  The Commission is responsible for the selection of suitable candidates for appointment as magistrates. The Commission has found that each has a proven track record of managerial experience required for this highest judicial office at the district court level. 

Issued by the Ministry of Department of Justice and Correctional Services

Enquiries: Adv Mthunzi Mhaga
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services
Cell: 083 641 8141
Email: mediaenquiries@justice.gov.za