#UniteBehind to Attend Judicial Misconduct Tribunal on Judge Makhubele
February 6, 2024 – #UniteBehind, a civil society organisation committed to accountability and transparency, announces its intention to attend the resumption of the Judicial Conduct Committee Tribunal concerning Judge Makhubele’s conduct. The hearing, scheduled to recommence on February 7, follows a lengthy process initiated by #UniteBehind’s complaint in 2019 regarding gross misconduct and potential conflicts of interest involving Judge Makhubele’s dual roles as the chairperson of the Passenger Rail Agency (Prasa) and a judge of the Gauteng High Court.
Last week’s hearing, marred by delays and an apparent lack of substantive evidence, was deeply disappointing and frustrating for all parties involved. Despite numerous postponements, Judge Makhubele’s presentation of evidence needed to be revised, leaving critical questions unanswered. It appeared to many observers that her actions were more aligned with stalling tactics rather than genuine engagement with the tribunal’s process.
During the previous week’s of hearings, 22-26 Jan, Judge Makhubele’s testimony was characterised by what we perceive as obfuscation and avoidance, further hindering the pursuit of justice and accountability. Her repeated claims of being unprepared and her struggles to produce essential documentation only added to the sense of frustration among attendees.
It is clear that the previous week’s hearing was an exercise in waffling and an active attempt to avoid providing substantive evidence. #UniteBehind believes that this behaviour was a disservice to the tribunal, the public’s interest, and to the pursuit of truth and accountability.
As the Tribunal reconvenes this week, #UniteBehind expects that Judge Makhubele will be compelled to provide a comprehensive and transparent testimony. The wasted costs incurred by the JCS and #UniteBehind, as the complainant, are unjustifiable. We remain committed to ensuring that the interests of justice and accountability are upheld throughout this process. We expect this week that her legal counsel will be present to represent her.
Place: Sandton Hotel, 5 Benmore Rd, Sandton, Johannesburg
Time: 10h00