- Jacob Zuma has petitioned the Constitutional Court in his latest attempt to remove Justice Sisi Khampepe from investigating Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) cases.
- Zuma and former President Thabo Mbeki have consistently called for Justice Khampepe to be removed as chair of the inquiry over alleged bias.
- South Africans took to social media over Zuma's latest legal pursuit, with some highlighting his poor court track record and others defending his latest bid.
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Byron Pillay, A news in brief Journalist, has dedicated a decade to reporting on the South African political scene, crime and social issues. He worked as a newspaper journalist for 10 years before transitioning to online.
Gauteng – jacob juma Heading to the Constitutional Court as he continues his bid to remove Justice Sisi Khampepe as chair of the investigation into Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) cases.
Former President Zuma and Thabo Mbeki Several court applications have been filed to remove Justice Khampepe over alleged biases.
The investigation into TRC cases is investigating alleged interference and concerted efforts by the TRC to prevent the prosecution of cases referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). The TRC investigated gross human rights violations committed by both pro- and anti-apartheid forces between 1960 and 1994.
Zuma will have to approach the Constitutional Court
on 30 March 2026 Gauteng High Court, Johannesburg dismissed Justice Khampepe is the latest attempt by Zuma and Mbeki to insulate themselves.
Presidents contacted high court appeal Justice Khampepe's decision That she will not separate herself from it. The High Court said that it does not have its jurisdiction to decide on the petition to dismiss the original petition of the former presidents.
As a result, Zuma has now petitioned the Constitutional Court as he seeks to appeal the High Court decision.
Source: Twitter
Zuma's decision to petition the Constitutional Court was initially reported eNCABut Mzwanele of the uMkhonto weSizwe party Manai has since disputed Claim.
The Jacob G Zuma Foundation also released a statement regarding the claims, stating that the information came from a leaked letter, and that there was nothing newsworthy about it yet.
The media statement read, “President Zuma strongly condemns the disgraceful leak of the letter. When the matter is ready for public consumption, a statement will be issued as we usually do. There will be no media interviews on this leak.”
Why do Zuma and Mbeki want Justice Khampepe to recuse himself?
The former President wants Justice Khampepe to recuse herself from allegations that she was biased and conflicted due to her historical involvement with the NPA and the original TRC.
Juma also Tried to get President Cyril Ramaphosa Action should be taken and the retired judge should be removed, but they did not do so. Ramaphosa said he did not have the power to remove him, adding that only the court had that power.
South Africans divided over Zuma's latest legal effort
Social media users praised Zuma's latest legal plans and shared mixed reactions to it. Some noted his poor track record in court, while others suggested that the former president knew what he was doing.
hebron zulu Shouted:
“He's always in court, and he's never won a case.”
Sanjay Maharaj agreed:
“The old man just loves courtrooms and the losing cases that go along with them.”
Matt Backler said:
“1001 Ways to Delay a Trial.”
Sipho Ntekiso asked:
“What is he trying to hide? And South Africans need to know what happened to Thami 'TZ' Zulu.”
Nene Shozi said:
“He is slowly exposing SA's judiciary system. He may look stupid for now, but later, n'zobona.”
Shawn Andrew Nero said:
“If the judge is not removed, all apartheid cases will be invalidated. She was part of the TRC and is now a judge on the commission.”
Nkosinathi Smartnova Mathokozisi agrees:
“Sissi Khampépe is controversial and will certainly not adjudicate these proceedings impartially.”
Thabiso Mfambaniso joked:
“Zuma's lawyers are now getting rich. Smiling and going straight to the bank. Appeal after appeal.”
Supreme Court of Appeal rejects Zuma's application
in another case, The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) rejected Zuma's petition. The latest attempt to remove Billy Downer from his position as prosecutor on his trial.
news in brief The former president has now failed several times in his quest to ensure a successful prosecution, the report said.
South Africans found the funny side of the matter, noting how many times Zuma had lost court cases.
Source: News in Brief