Judge Mbenenge to Testify in Sexual Harassment Tribunal
Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge is set to testify before the Judicial Conduct Tribunal on Monday, addressing allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him by High Court Secretary Andiswa Mengo. This highly anticipated testimony marks a critical juncture in a case that has captivated the South African legal community and the nation at large.
Mengo alleges that Judge Mbenenge made unwanted sexual advances towards her between 2021 and 2022, including sending explicit messages, persistent pursuit, and an alleged attempt to expose himself in his chambers in November 2022. These are serious allegations that Mbenenge has consistently denied.
The tribunal, convened in Sandton, Johannesburg, has already heard testimony from witnesses presented by Judge Mbenenge's legal team. These witnesses aimed to cast doubt on the credibility of Mengo and other witnesses called by Advocate Salome Scheepers, the evidence leader. However, the tribunal declined to hear the testimony of Unathi Sogoni, a stenographer from the Makhanda High Court and former friend of Mengo, deeming her evidence hearsay and irrelevant to the inquiry.
The exclusion of Sogoni's testimony highlights the tribunal's focus on direct and relevant evidence. Judge Mbenenge now has the opportunity to present his version of events and defend himself against the accusations. He is expected to be on the stand for a significant portion of the week and will face rigorous cross-examination from Advocate Scheepers.
The outcome of this tribunal will have significant implications for Judge Mbenenge's career and the reputation of the South African judiciary. The proceedings are being closely watched as they unfold, with the public eager to hear Judge Mbenenge's response to the serious allegations against him.
Key Issues at Stake
- The veracity of Andiswa Mengo's allegations of sexual harassment.
- The credibility of witnesses presented by both sides.
- The potential impact on Judge Mbenenge's career and the judiciary's reputation.
- The overall fairness and impartiality of the tribunal proceedings.