Judges Matter hopes misconduct probe against Judge Parker resolves issues within WC High Court division

JOHANNESBURG - Judicial watchdog, Judges Matter, says the Judicial Conduct Tribunal probing allegations of gross misconduct against Western Cape Judge Mushtak Parker must assist in turning a new leaf in the division.

The high court is riddled with divisions, some owing to an incident where Parker accused then Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe of allegedly assaulting him.

The tribunal is set to sit from next week and Judges Matter researcher and advocacy officer, Mbekezeli Benjamin, said that the organisation was hopeful that some of the issues within the division would be resolved.

"We saw an unfortunate situation of judge versus judge. In this case, we’re hoping that it will help turn the corner for the Western Cape High Court, ensuring that, going forward, there is a spirit of collegiality amongst the judges and that the Western Cape High Court functions and delivers justice for the people of the Western Cape."