Judges Matter urges suspension of Judge Phahlane following her arrest over corruption and money laundering allegations linked to a church succession dispute.

Judges Matter has called for the immediate suspension of Gauteng High Court Judge Portia Dipuo Phahlane following her arrest by the Hawks over corruption and money laundering allegations. The civil society organisation expressed shock at the developments, stating the judiciary’s reputation is at risk. Phahlane is accused of accepting a bribe worth millions of rand in a long-running church leadership dispute within the International Pentecost Holiness Church (IPHC).

Phahlane was one of four individuals arrested by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) in connection with a major corruption and money-laundering investigation. The suspects, aged between 32 and 64, face charges including corruption and money laundering and are set to appear before the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court. The investigation is linked to a succession dispute within the IPHC, a Wesleyan-Holiness denomination.

Judges Matter urged the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to invoke section 19 of the Judicial Service Commission Act 9 of 1994, requesting the president to suspend Phahlane. The organisation emphasized the gravity of the allegations, which challenge a judge’s constitutional duty to adjudicate without fear, favour or prejudice. The JSC is advised to take the “extraordinary route” under section 19(1)(b), which could involve appointing a Judicial Conduct Tribunal and advising the president to suspend the judge.

Alison Tilley, co-ordinator of Judges Matter, stressed that while Phahlane is innocent until proven guilty, the seriousness of the allegations necessitates urgent action. Any delay, she warned, could irreparably damage the judiciary’s reputation. The Hawks confirmed the investigation uncovered a money trail involving millions of rand allegedly exchanged among the accused.

Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale highlighted the importance of the arrests, stating they demonstrate the DPCI’s commitment to combating corruption at all levels. Acting Hawks head Lieutenant General Siphosihle Nkosi welcomed the arrests, underscoring the agency’s dedication to upholding integrity in the legal system.

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