MPs outraged as magistrate accused of rape still wants to sit on the bench

CAPE TOWN - Members of Parliament have been left outraged after a magistrate accused of rape still wants to sit on the bench despite the charges.

The justice and correctional services committee met on Wednesday to discuss suspensions of magistrates and the charges they face.

These include one magistrate being part of a ponzi scheme and another gambling during office hours.

The Magistrates Commission briefed the Parliament's justice committee about the many cases involving magistrates, from gender-based violence to fraud.

Advocate Naomi Manaka from the commission said one magistrate faced sexual offence charges.

"So there were complaints of Mr Mziwonke Hinxa (correct) having sexual intercourse with the complainant without her consent. That happened on two occasions."

Committee member Glynnis Breytenbach expressed her outrage.

"I agree with two previous speakers. This is outrageous that there can be a debate about the fitness to hold office of a man convicted of raping somebody and wants to sit on the bench."

Members of the justice committee also say the Magistrates Commission itself is dysfunctional for failing to complete its investigations on time and called for it to be reformed.