Nathan Ponnan

Visvanathan Ponnan (born 17 August 1960) is a South African judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal. He joined the Gauteng High Court in 2001 and was elevated to the Supreme Court of Appeal in December 2004. Before that, he practised as an advocate in Durban between 1985 and 2001.

Early life and education Ponnan was born on 17 August 1960 in Durban. He matriculated at Gandhi Desai Secondary School and went on the University of Durban–Westville, where he completed a BA in 1982 and an LLB in 1984.

Legal practice He was admitted as an advocate of the High Court of South Africa in 1985 and practised at the Durban Bar for the next 16 years. The Judicial Service Commission recommended his appointment, and he was appointed by President Thabo Mbeki in November 2004, alongside Dunstan Mlambo and Chris Jafta. He was often noted for his judgements on open justice matters and freedom of information, and he wrote the court's judgements in prominent matters concerning Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe and the corruption prosecution of former President Jacob Zuma.

Personal life He is married to Vinitha Jithoo and has two children.