Joburg High Court hears John Hlophe’s conversation with justices was not casual

The High Court in Johannesburg on Tuesday heard that Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe’s conversation with two Constitutional Court judges, which got him slapped with gross misconduct charges, was no casual exchange of pleasantries.

Hlophe is challenging the Judicial Service Commission’s finding that he is guilty of gross misconduct and should be impeached.

However, the lawyer representing the Constitutional Court said the case was not just about whether judges may in general talk to each other.

Advocate Gilbert Marcus, for the Constitutional Court judges, said Hlophe’s argument that the case was about the presumption of judicial integrity was not correct as it had no application on the case.

“Nor is this case about whether the Judge President succeeded in improperly influencing Justices [Chris] Jafta and [Bess] Nkabinde is common cause that they were not influenced.”

Marcus is the same attorney that Hlophe’s defence objected to when he presented arguments for the judges during his tribunal hearing last year.

He said Hlophe’s actions affected the core of the Constitutional Court.

Earlier, the court heard arguments from lawyers representing the JSC. They maintained that the decision to refer Hlophe for impeachment is above reproach.

-EWN

In other news – WATCH: Master KG buys Makhadzi a brand new AMG & books a whole restaurant for Valentines

Makhadzi and Master KG’s love story is goals. Despite coming through with a late entry into Valentine’s day fever, Master KG surely did make a statement.

He surprised his girlfriend Makhadzi with a brand new AMG. The exact model was not specified but all we know is, Makhadzi was gifted with a new car. Learn More