Ramaphosa appoints Judge Desai as legal ombudsman
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed recently retired Judge Siraj Desai as the Legal Services Ombud.
Desai will be tasked with investigating complaints and alleged maladministration in the legal profession.
Spokesperson in the Presidency Tyrone Seale says Desai’s 7-year term took effect on 16 December.
“Following discussions with Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola the president has appointed Justice Desai to advance and safeguard the integrity of the legal profession in the country.”
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Minister of Justice Ronald Lamola has welcomed Desai’s appointment.
“The president could not have appointed a more qualified, experienced and appropriate jurist than judge Desai.
"Having practised as an attorney and advocate and a cherry on top of having served as a distinguished judge in our constitutional democracy,” says Justice ministry spokesperson Chrispin Phiri.
“He understands the intricacies and challenges of both streams of the profession. We look forward to working with him and the entire profession in our quest to improve access to justice for our people.”
