President appoints Legal Services Ombud

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed recently retired Honourable Justice Sirajudien Desai as the Legal Services Ombud in terms of Section 47 of the Legal Practice Act No. 28 of 2014.

In terms of the Legal Practice Act, Judge Desai is empowered to investigate complaints, alleged maladministration, within  the ambit of the Act, and actions which may affect the integrity of the legal the profession, among others.

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.

President Ramaphosa said: “Judge Desai has devoted the greater part of his life to serving the nation as a judge and I am confident he will take the legal profession to new heights by ensuring that those in the profession meet the ethical standards required in a legal system that serves all South Africans with fairness and dignity within the rule of law.” 

The appointment of Judge Desai is with effect from 16 December 2020 for a term of seven years.


Media enquiries: Tyrone Seale, Acting Spokesperson to the President – 083 5757 440

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria