MK Party forging ahead with Hlophe JSC nomination, citing his ‘unquestionable capabilities’
Former judge John Hlophe’s nomination to represent the party on the JSC has sparked concern among civil society organisations, which have written to Speaker Thoko Didiza, urging the House not to approve his inclusion.
FILE: MK Party chief whip John Hlophe speaks to the media after being sworn in as an MP on 25 June 2024. Picture: Lindsay Dentlinger/Eyewitness News
CAPE TOWN – The Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party remains steadfast in its nomination of former judge John Hlophe to represent it on the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), despite the matter being withdrawn from the National Assembly’s agenda for further consultation among parties, as announced by African National Congress (ANC) Chief Whip Mdumiseni Ntuli.
MK Whip Sihle Ngubane claimed the party had not been informed of this deferral.
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- MK Party to nominate impeached former judge Hlophe to represent it on JSC
Hlophe’s nomination has sparked concern among seven civil society organisations, which have written to Speaker Thoko Didiza, urging the House not to approve his inclusion.
They argue that nominating an individual found guilty of gross misconduct and removed from judicial office by the JSC itself would be inappropriate and irrational, potentially leading to legal challenges, and undermining public confidence in the judicial appointments process.
Despite these concerns, and the ANC and Democratic Alliance’s (DA) prior vote to impeach Hlophe, MK MP and spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndlela, maintains that Hlophe's capabilities are unquestionable, citing his legal expertise and doctorate.
Ndlela accused the DA of attempting to block black excellence and refused to engage with them on this matter.
The ANC nominated Soviet Lekganyane and Fatiha Hassan, the DA renominated Glynnis Breytenbach, and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) nominated its leader, Julius Malema.
ActionSA has put forward Athol Trollip on behalf of smaller parties.
Meanwhile, the House has agreed on four candidates to represent it on the Magistrate’s Commission: Faith Muthambi (ANC), Adrian Roos (DA), Sibonelo Nomvalo (MK), and Omphile Maotwe (EFF).