SA President Ramaphosa Removes Western Cape Judge President Hlophe Amid Gross Misconduct Findings

SA’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially ousted Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe from office following the Judicial Service Commission’s findings of gross misconduct. The National Assembly, backed by over two-thirds of its members, passed a resolution calling for Hlophe’s removal. The decision stems from allegations that Hlophe attempted to inappropriately influence Constitutional Court Justices Bess Nkabinde and Chris Jafta in 2008. As a result, Hlophe faces the loss of benefits, including a lifetime salary, a car allowance, and comprehensive medical care. The move underscores a significant development in addressing judicial impropriety within the South African legal system.