Pressure mounts to suspend arrested High Court judge

Judicial watchdog Judges Matter has called for the suspension of Gauteng High Court Judge Portia Phahlane, who has been arrested on allegations of corruption related to a court case she presided over.

It is alleged that Phahlane received gratification of more than R2 million in an attempt to influence a civil case that she is currently presiding over in the Gauteng High Court, Pretoria.

The civil society organisation has called for Phahlane to immediately step down from her judicial duties and for the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to urgently advise the President to place her on suspension.

Judges Matter adds that the severity of the accusations requires the JSC to appoint a Judicial Conduct Tribunal.

It points out that this would be the first time this extraordinary route, involving setting up the tribunal and making a recommendation to the President, has been used in the history of the JSC. However, it is justified.

“We are deeply shocked and very concerned at this turn of events,” said Judges Matter co-ordinator Alison Tilley.

“While the judge is innocent until proven guilty by criminal law standards, the extreme seriousness of the allegations requires the JSC to act urgently to place the judge on suspension even at this early stage. Any delay would cause irreparable damage to the reputation of the judiciary.”

The Directorate for Priority Crimes, also known as the Hawks, spokesperson Katlego Mogale told Newzroom Afrika that the arrest took place in the Pretoria area.

“We are still busy collecting some of the other suspects. As soon as they have been arrested, they will appear before the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in Pretoria, facing charges of corruption and money laundering,” she said.

Phahlane, who was arrested alongside her son, was allegedly paid the money to rule in favour of one faction embroiled in the International Pentecost Holiness Church’s succession battle.

Three factions were vying for the top spot of the church, founded by Frederick Modise in the 1960s. Two were led by each of Modise’s sons, and the other by Michael Sandlana.

It is alleged that Sandlana made the payments to Phahlane to rule in his favour. He has also been arrested.