Zuma, Mbeki apply for recusal of retired justice Sisi Khampepe from chairing TRC cases inquiry

Former statesmen Jacob Zuma and Thabo Mbeki have applied for the recusal of retired justice Sisi Khampepe from chairing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) prosecutions commission, appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2025.

The applications, supported by four former Cabinet ministers, cite alleged conflicts of interest, misconduct and apprehension of bias.

Zuma has indicated he will refer certain allegations to the Judicial Service Commission. 

The applicants said the move is not intended to block accountability but to ensure a fair and impartial process. 

The Jacob Zuma Foundation’s spokesperson, Mzwanele Manyi, said the matter will be heard on 16 January 2025 at the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre in Johannesburg.