Legal analyst Mpumelelo Zikalala says the credibility of South Africa’s (SA) judiciary is under renewed scrutiny following the arrest of Gauteng High Court Judge Portia Phahlane on corruption charges.
Phahlane appeared in the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court yesterday and was granted bail of $3 000. She is accused of receiving a $117 000 bribe in exchange for delivering a favourable ruling in the International Pentecostal Holiness Church succession case.
Speaking about the implications of the arrest, Zikalala said the incident casts a shadow over public confidence in the judiciary, but he emphasised the principle of innocence until proven guilty.
“This will dent the credibility of judges, and they are under scrutiny as we speak. But it’s important to remember that the judge affected can still perform her duties, hear cases and deliver judgments,” he said.
“Anyone dissatisfied with her rulings has the option to appeal to higher courts, such as the Supreme Court of Appeal or the Constitutional Court. Allegations of misconduct can also be referred to the Judicial Service Commission. The Chief Justice, meanwhile, is responsible for protecting the integrity and image of the justice system.”
–ChannelAfrica–
