JSC postpones update on drawing up of sexual harassment policy to October

JOHANNESBURG - The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has deferred its update on the drawing up of a sexual harassment policy to October.

The policy has been on the cards, spearheaded by Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, and a committee has been set up to start the process.

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The need for a sexual harassment policy for the judiciary has been highlighted on multiple occasions, but more so in light of the allegations against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge.

A tribunal was set up in December to investigate the sexual harassment allegations against him.

JSC spokesperson Mvuzo Notyesi said that the inquiry’s still in its infancy stage.

“The NPA [National Prosecuting Authority] still has to appoint the person responsible for the evidence leading, so it is at that stage.”

There was widespread outrage earlier in 2024 when the JSE decided not to recommend the Judge Mbenenge’s suspension because he was already on special leave, pending the outcome of the tribunal.