DA wins urgent interdict against John Hlophe in key battle for judicial independence

27 September 2024

The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes the Western Cape High Court’s decision to grant an urgent interdict preventing Dr. John Hlophe from taking up his seat on the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). This is a landmark victory for the DA and for the integrity of South Africa’s judiciary.

The court's decision affirms our position and strengthens the fight to maintain the highest standards of integrity within our judiciary. An impeached judge, found guilty of gross misconduct, should not hold a position on the JSC, a body entrusted with the responsibility of selecting judges and upholding the highest standards of judicial integrity.

This ruling is a major step in safeguarding the independence and credibility of our judicial system. Allowing Dr. Hlophe, who was impeached after a long and contentious legal process, to influence the selection of future judges would have severely damaged public trust in our judiciary and compromised the principles that uphold our democracy.

Today’s ruling is a clear victory for all South Africans who believe in an impartial and ethical judiciary. It underscores that those tasked with overseeing and selecting our judges must be held to the highest standards of conduct. We remain committed to upholding the rule of law and defending the values enshrined in our Constitution.

The DA will continue in its fight to ensure that our judiciary remains independent, transparent, and free from political interference.

Issued by Karabo Khakhau, DA National Spokesperson, 27 September 2024