Chief Justice Mandisa Maya Calls for Proof After R2.5 Million Bail Bribe Allegation

Chief Justice Mandisa Maya Demands Proof After R2.5 Million Bail Bribe Allegation

Allegations that millions of rand may have been set aside to influence the bail of underworld figure Katiso “KT” Molefe have sparked concern within South Africa’s judiciary. The claims, made before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, involve Acting Judge President Aubrey Ledwaba, who is said to have presided over Molefe’s bail application.

A Claim Yet to Be Verified

On Tuesday, a witness identified only as “Witness A” told the commission that he had heard from an informer that R2.5 million had been earmarked to secure Molefe’s bail. Crucially, the witness admitted he did not know whether the money was intended for Judge Ledwaba or the public prosecutor handling the case.

Chief Justice Mandisa Maya stressed that, while serious, the allegation remains unverified and could damage public confidence in the judiciary if taken at face value.

“The claim has the potential to erode trust in the Judiciary,” Maya said, urging anyone with credible evidence of judicial misconduct to lodge a formal complaint with the Judicial Conduct Committee (JCC).

She clarified that the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has the legal mandate to investigate allegations against judges and, if necessary, recommend suspension to the President.

“No formal complaint has been lodged in this matter,” Maya noted.

Ledwaba Responds

Maya confirmed she had discussed the matter directly with Ledwaba, including the possibility of him taking special leave while the commission completes its work.

Ledwaba, however, denied ever receiving money to influence the bail decision and declined to take leave, noting that judges cannot be forced to step aside voluntarily. He has indicated that he is seeking legal advice and intends to appear before the commission to present his side of the story.

Judiciary Reaffirms Commitment

Maya used the occasion to reaffirm the Judiciary’s stance on accountability and integrity, assuring South Africans that any judicial officer found to have acted unlawfully or unethically will face swift action.

“The Judiciary remains committed to serving all South Africans with impartiality and integrity,” she said.

Commission Continues

The Madlanga Commission will continue its proceedings on Friday, with Witness C expected to take the stand. The commission is tasked with examining claims of corruption, criminality, and political interference in the criminal justice system, a process that has already brought high-profile figures into sharp focus.

Public and Legal Implications

The alleged R2.5 million bribe has triggered discussion online, with South Africans questioning whether the justice system can remain transparent under such scrutiny. Legal analysts caution that, until formal evidence emerges, the claims remain allegations and stress the importance of due process.

As the country watches closely, one thing is clear: the integrity of the judiciary is under the microscope, and both public perception and legal precedent are on the line.

While claims of a R2.5 million bribe in the Molefe bail case raise eyebrows, Chief Justice Maya emphasizes evidence over speculation, reaffirming that South Africa’s judges remain accountable and the Madlanga Commission continues to investigate.

{Source: IOL}

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