Women’s rights groups say Mbenenge's conduct undermines constitutional protections against gender discrimination
This follows sexual harassment allegations made by high court secretary, Andiswa Mengo, against the judge.
Eastern Cape Judge President, Selby Mbenenge took to the witness stand to detail his relationship with his subordinate, Andiswa Mengo on 7 July 2025. Picture: Jacques Nelles / Eyewitness News
JOHANNESBURG - Women’s rights groups say the conduct of Judge President Selby Mbenenge undermines constitutional protections against gender discrimination.
This follows sexual harassment allegations made by high court secretary, Andiswa Mengo, against the judge.
READ: Mbenenge denies sending pornographic material to Mengo
Mbenenge appeared before a tribunal in Sandton this week, where the claims of unwanted sexual advances are being investigated.
Two advocacy organisations, Masinanyane Women’s Rights and the Eastern Cape branch of Ikhwelo Network, have criticised the tribunal process, calling for an independent investigation into the claims against Mbenenge.
They say the allegations made by Mengo are part of a larger culture of silence and lack of accountability within the judiciary.
The groups argue that current reporting systems do not adequately protect whistleblowers from retaliation, and that the existing inquiry may not be fair to the complainant.
During the tribunal, Mbenenge denied sending pornographic material to his colleague, adding that he is embarrassed the allegations have gone public.
The women’s rights groups are now calling for urgent reform in how sexual misconduct is handled within the judicial system.