Tebogo Msimanga |
Freedom Under Law says it is not concerned with the political consequences of Judge John Hlophe’s dismissal of the corruption case against ANC MP Bongani Bongo. “Our concern is its implications for the administration of justice. This particular decision is clearly wrong and shows what harm just one dishonest judge can do.” Said Freedom Under Law Chair Johann Kriegler.
“Since he tried to pervert the course of justice against Mr Zuma thirteen years ago, we have maintained that Judge Hlophe is unfit to be a judge. His contrived reasoning and perverse ruling last week demonstrate how dangerous it has been to allow him to remain on the Bench.”
On Friday, 26 March 2021, the Western Cape High court dismissed a case against Bongo. Jugde Hlope found him not guilty on a charge of corruption on the basis of insufficient evidence.
“We now publicly and urgently repeat our submission to the Judicial Service Commission that Judge Hlophe be suspended pending the conclusion of the proceedings for his removal from office.”
Kriegler added that Hlophe’s conduct in the case against Bongo “constitutes yet another act of gross misconduct unfitting him for judicial office.”
Meanwhile, it is reported that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is considering its options after its case against Bongo was dismissed.
