South Africa's Judicial Service Commission will convene a tribunal to examine allegations against Free State High Court Judge LJ Lekale, who has not performed judicial duties for 6 years due to illness. Judge President C Musi filed the complaint on Jan. 31 under the Judicial Service Commission Act after observing the prolonged absence that began around 2019. The Judicial Conduct Committee reviewed the matter on April 29 and recommended a formal investigation.
The National Assembly endorsed the tribunal's recommendation on Oct. 10, following procedures that ensure parliamentary oversight of judicial accountability. Lekale joined the bench on Jan. 1, 2012, and previously handled criminal appeals before the extended leave period. The tribunal will review medical records and assess whether the judge can resume work or should pursue medical retirement. The case highlights challenges courts face when health issues prevent judges from fulfilling their responsibilities in a system already strained by case backlogs.
The National Assembly endorsed the tribunal's recommendation on Oct. 10, following procedures that ensure parliamentary oversight of judicial accountability. Lekale joined the bench on Jan. 1, 2012, and previously handled criminal appeals before the extended leave period. The tribunal will review medical records and assess whether the judge can resume work or should pursue medical retirement. The case highlights challenges courts face when health issues prevent judges from fulfilling their responsibilities in a system already strained by case backlogs.
