Parly’s resolution to impeach Hlophe, Motata a ‘vindication of Constitution’ - Judges Matter

JOHANNESBURG - Judges Matter described Parliament's resolution to call for Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe and retired Gauteng High Court Judge Nkola Motata's impeachment as "a vindication of the Constitution".

The decision was taken by way of a vote on Wednesday night, which saw both motions secure the requisite two-thirds majority to go through.

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The president must now make it official. However, he has no discretion and has to act in accordance with Parliament's decision.

"First and foremost, it is a vindication of the Constitution. It is the first time that the impeachment of a judge happens," said Judges Matter's Mbekezeli Benjamin.

"It’s the first time the National Assembly has to grapple with upholding the Constitution and holding judges accountable for the performance of their functions and upholding the standards of judicial ethics."

Benjamin also said this was "yet another reminder that all holders of power under the Constitution [were] accountable", including judges.

"They are accountable for the conduct they carry out while they’re judges in office, and also they’re accountable to the broader public through the public representatives in the National Assembly."