John Hlophe quits JSC

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The uMkhonto weSizwe Deputy President John Hlophe has quit as one of the designated members of the National Assembly to serve in the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).

MK Party announced Hlophe’s withdrawal on Monday saying it will take effect immediately.

Party spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndhlela, said they will not allow Hlophe’s name to be associated with a patently misleading, fraudulent, and improperly constituted JSC.

“The MK Party maintains that the composition of the JSC, without Dr. Hlophe’s participation as a representative from the leading opposition party is in violation of Section 178(1)(h) of the Constitution.

“This JSC has failed to meet the prescribed minimum threshold of three members from the opposition parties.

“We further believe that the will of the overwhelming number of people of South Africa who voted for participation of Dr Hlophe in all parliament duties assigned to him has been severely and constitutionally undermined,” he remarked.

The Democratic Alliance(DA) spokesperson on justice and constitutional development, Adv. Glynnis Breytenbach, said Hlophe’s resignation marks a significant victory for judicial independence.

Impeached Judge should not have a seat on the JSC

Breytenbach highlighted that they have long argued that an impeached judge with a record of gross misconduct should not have a seat on the JSC.

She added; “For years, the DA has led the fight to hold Dr. Hlophe accountable, and his resignation from the JSC reinforces the principle that only individuals of the highest ethical standards should be entrusted with shaping our judiciary.

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“This outcome is not just a triumph for the DA but a win for every South African who believes in an impartial and independent judiciary, free from undue influence and compromised leadership.

“This development reaffirms our commitment to protecting the integrity of our courts and the rule of law.”

Breytenbach stated that it remains to be seen whether or not this is another cheap stunt to disrupt the sitting of the JSC, but his departure is a certain win.