JCT evidence leader bemoans Judge Parkers failure to give his side of the story before the tribunal
Evidence leader, Dr Chris Ndzengu, has lamented suspended Western Cape Judge, Mushtak Parker, over his failure to apologise for the tensions his remarks created on the Cape bench.
Western Cape Judge Mushtak Parker appeared before the Judicial Conduct Tribunal on 24 February 2025. Picture: @OCJ_RSA/X
JOHANNESBURG - Evidence leader in the Judicial Conduct Tribunal probing allegations of gross misconduct against suspended Western Cape Judge, Mushtak Parker, has bemoaned his failure to give his side of the story before the tribunal.
During virtual hearings held in February, several judges of the Western Cape bench testified against Parker for informing them that he had been assaulted by then Judge President, Dr John Hlophe.
They also testified that he retracted his statement, leading to concerns on the bench and adding to the friction that played out in the division.
Evidence leader, Dr Chris Ndzengu, has lamented suspended Western Cape Judge, Mushtak Parker, over his failure to apologise for the tensions his remarks created on the Cape bench.
Not only this, but Ndzengu says his decision not to testify before the judicial conduct tribunal has closed the door on the tribunal’s ability to get to the bottom of what actually happened, as Parker did not give his account of events.
"Throughout this saga, the respondent had the opportunity to apologise for what had happened, particularly in relation to the tension that took place in the Western Cape Division, and the consequences of his conduct. We haven’t had that and it is, with submission, regrettable that nothing of that sort – an apology – has not been forthcoming at all."
Ndzengu says Parker’s behaviour is unbecoming of a Judge.