JSC recommends Aubrey Ledwaba for Gauteng Judge President amid corruption allegations

With the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) accepting the explanation provided by Gauteng Acting Judge President Aubrey Ledwaba regarding recent corruption allegations, judicial watchdog Judges Matter says the commission has dealt with the matter adequately.

Judge Ledwaba’s lengthy interview was dominated by these allegations, which commissioners described as a cloud over his candidature.

READ: Ledwaba to appear before JSC seeking permanent appointment as Gauteng Judge President

The controversy stems from testimony heard in October at the Madlanga Commission.

A witness alleged that suspected crime boss Katiso "KT" Molefe paid R2.5 million to secure his release on bail in a case presided over by Ledwaba.

Despite these claims, the JSC has moved forward with putting Ledwaba’s name forward to head the busiest judicial division in the country.

It was a challenging day for the Acting Judge President, who faced rigorous questioning from JSC members focused primarily on the Madlanga Commission testimony.

Even when grilled on whether he should wait for a formal exoneration from that commission before seeking the promotion, Ledwaba maintained his position.

Ultimately, the JSC resolved to recommend him to lead the Gauteng Division of the High Court.

Alison Tilley of Judges Matter noted that Ledwaba engaged substantively with the allegations during the process.

"Ledwaba engaged substantively with the allegations [during the interview]."

Tilley further explained that because no official complaint has been lodged against Ledwaba directly with the JSC, his appointment is unlikely to face a legal challenge.

However, the final decision now rests with President Cyril Ramaphosa, who must authorise the appointment.