Mapaballo Borotho
- Judge Aubrey Ledwaba has dismissed claims that he accepted R2.5 million to grant bail to alleged crime boss KT Molefe.
- Chief Justice Mandisa Maya warned that such allegations could severely damage the judiciary’s integrity.
- Ledwaba says he will seek legal advice and has asked to present his side before the Madlanga Commission.
Acting Judge President Aubrey Ledwaba has firmly denied allegations that he received R2.5 million in exchange for granting bail to alleged contract killings mastermind, Katiso “KT” Molefe.
The claims emerged during testimony at the Madlanga Commission, where Witness A alleged that an informer told him money had been paid to secure Molefe’s release. However, the witness could not confirm whether the funds were meant for Judge Ledwaba, the public prosecutor, or another official involved in the case.
In response, Chief Justice Mandisa Maya issued a statement on Thursday stressing that such serious allegations have the potential to tarnish the image of South Africa’s judiciary.
She urged anyone with credible evidence of judicial corruption to lodge a complaint with the Judicial Conduct Committee (JCC) of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).
“The JSC is the constitutional body with the lawful mandate to investigate any alleged misconduct by a judge and to recommend suspension to the President,” the statement read.
Maya confirmed that the matter has been discussed with Judge Ledwaba, including the possibility of granting him special leave while the Madlanga Commission continues its work.
Ledwaba, however, has rejected the bribery claims, stating that he never received any payment related to Molefe’s bail. He said he would not be taking special leave, and has sought legal counsel while requesting the opportunity to address the Madlanga Commission directly to give his version of events.
The Madlanga Commission was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July to investigate allegations of criminal and political interference in South Africa’s criminal justice system.
