Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga will, from October 10, be Rhodes University’s new chancellor, succeeding Justice Lex Mpati, who is retiring as the chancellor after 13 years of distinguished service.

Madlanga was elected unanimously, with the Rhodes University Council saying its decision recognises not only his legal expertise and integrity but also his enduring commitment to education and public service.

Madlanga is an alumnus of Rhodes University, where he completed his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree before furthering his studies internationally.

He is a distinguished jurist who recently retired after serving with distinction at the Constitutional Court of South Africa for more than a decade.

“His illustrious career has been marked by a profound dedication to constitutional democracy, human rights and the rule of law,” the council said.

Madlanga now chairs the Madlanga Commission, a landmark inquiry into corruption, criminality and political interference in South Africa’s justice system.

As chancellor, he will serve as the ceremonial head of Rhodes University, presiding over graduation ceremonies and acting as an ambassador for the university’s vision of producing graduates who are critical thinkers, ethical leaders and engaged citizens.

Rhodes University vice-chancellor Professor Sizwe Mabizela described Madlanga’s appointment as “a homecoming to the institution from where he graduated in 1986 and where he received an honorary Doctor of Laws in 2023”.

“Justice Madlanga embodies the values and ideals that Rhodes University stands for. His life and career demonstrate the transformative power of education and the pursuit of justice. We are honoured to have him serve as our chancellor and look forward to his guidance as we continue to shape the future of this institution,” Mabizela said.

Chair of Rhodes University Council Judge Gerald Bloem expressed confidence in Madlanga’s leadership.

“I have no doubt that Justice Madlanga, an exceptional jurist, whose seminal judgments are rooted in the Constitution, will serve Rhodes University with the same enthusiasm with which he served the country through those judgments. I wish him well as he embarks on his new journey,” he said.