Chief Justice Mandisa Maya has issued procedural directions in former President Jacob Zuma and the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party’s legal challenge against President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to place the Police Minister on special leave.
The Constitutional Court has set strict deadlines for the case:
– Any parties opposing the application must file answering affidavits by Tuesday, 22 July 2025
– Those seeking to join the case in support of Zuma’s application must submit intervention papers by Monday, 21 July 2025
The legal challenge targets three key decisions:
1. Placing the Police Minister on special leave
2. Appointing Professor Firoz Cachalia as Acting Police Minister
3. Establishing a judicial commission of inquiry
(1/1) CCT 206/25 Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma v President of the Republic of South Africa: Notice is hereby given that the Chief Justice has issued the following directions— pic.twitter.com/jI6bCUmkli
— Constitutional Court (@ConCourtSA) July 20, 2025
MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela argues Ramaphosa violated constitutional procedures by appointing Cachalia instead of Senzo Mchunu as acting minister. The party recently led protests at the Union Buildings demanding Ramaphosa’s resignation.
This development comes amid ongoing political tensions following the MK Party’s formation and its growing opposition to the current administration. Legal experts suggest the case could test constitutional boundaries regarding presidential powers in cabinet appointments.
The court’s tight timeline indicates urgency in addressing the matter, which has significant implications for South Africa’s political landscape. All eyes will now be on the respondents’ next moves ahead of next week’s deadlines.