The Mbenenge Misconduct Decision
JSC finds Judge President Mbenenge guilty of gross misconduct, signalling stronger accountability and a firm stance on power dynamics and sexual harassment in the judiciary.
JSC finds Judge President Mbenenge guilty of gross misconduct, signalling stronger accountability and a firm stance on power dynamics and sexual harassment in the judiciary.
The Judicial Service Commission’s April 2026 interviews come at a critical moment for South Africa’s judiciary. With 31 candidates vying for 15 vacancies, the JSC’s decisions will signal whether it is ready to strengthen judicial capacity, improve accountability, and rebuild public trust, or risk further undermining the system.
The Mbenenge Tribunal found Judge President Mbenenge not guilty of gross misconduct, but guilty of serious misconduct. This explainer unpacks what the ruling actually means, what still lies ahead at the JSC, and why the decision matters for judicial accountability.
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal into Judge Mbenenge heard harrowing testimony over seven days, including allegations of sexual harassment, power abuse, and missing evidence. The case highlights urgent concerns about accountability and justice within South Africa’s judiciary.
April 2025 JSC Appointments: JSC was only able to make one appointment to the Labour Court and one to the Electoral Court.
Now chaired by Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, the JSC faces political challenges and new members. This critical round of appointments will shape South Africa’s judiciary and test the JSC’s credibility.
Judicial Service Commission’s Decision on the postponement of the next sitting of the JSC, scheduled for 7 –16 October 2024.
The Western Cape High Court has granted the DA an interim interdict barring Dr. John Hlophe from participating in the October 2024 JSC interviews, citing concerns over the impact of his involvement on the credibility of the judicial appointment process.
Newly appointed Chief Justice Mandisa Maya faces significant challenges leading South Africa’s judiciary through a critical period.
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) needs to take a more ‘HR’ style, strategic approach to its role in judicial appointments.