Judiciary alarmed by Judge Phahlane’s arrest
The Judiciary has expressed grave concern following the arrest of Gauteng High Court Judge Portia Phahlane on corruption charges.
In a media statement, Chief Justice Mandisa Maya says the incident comes at a time when public confidence in the courts is under strain.
She adds that while the arrest of Judge Phahlane is unprecedented, it shows that no one is above the law.
Maya reiterated that the judge is entitled to the presumption of innocence and a fair trial.
Justice Maya stressed that the Judiciary will fully cooperate with law enforcement while respecting the independence of the process.
The statement further says Judge Phahlane will be placed on special leave immediately, and steps toward her suspension are under consideration.
Measures will also be taken to ensure cases assigned to her are not disrupted.
Maya called on anyone with evidence of wrongdoing by judicial officers to report it, saying accountability strengthens the rule of law.
VIDEO| Judge Portia Phahlane has been granted R50 000 bail: