- Chief Justice Mandisa Maya emphasises that the Judiciary stays strong and independent, even with allegations against a sitting judge.
- Judge Portia Phahlane, her son Kagiso, and Vusi Soli Ndala received bail, facing multiple corruption charges linked to payments from IPHC leader Bhekumuzi Sandlana.
- The Judiciary urges citizens to report misconduct while letting legal processes happen without bias, reminding everyone of the presumption of innocence.
The arrest of Judge Portia Phahlane, from the Gauteng Division of the High Court in Pretoria, has shocked South Africa’s legal community.
Chief Justice Mandisa Maya expressed serious concern over the situation, but reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to independence, accountability and the rule of law. “The Judiciary is vital to our constitutional democracy, and any claims of conduct that undermine its integrity and authority are taken very seriously,” Maya stated.
She noted that while public trust in the courts is under pressure, the accountability systems within the legal framework are working as intended. “No person, regardless of their position, is above the law or out of its reach,” she continued.
The Chief Justice also highlighted the presumption of innocence, explaining that Judge Phahlane is entitled to a fair process. Steps have been put in place to ensure her pending cases proceed without disruption, and she has been granted special leave until the criminal proceedings are complete.
Court appearance and bail conditions
On 26 November 2025, Judge Phahlane appeared with her son, Kagiso Phahlane. 32, and Vusi Soli Ndala at the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court. They were granted bail of R50 000 and R10 000 respectively, with strict conditions like handing over passports, avoiding interference with investigations or witnesses, and for Judge Phahlane, not entering High Court premises without permission.
The fourth accused, International Pentecost Holiness Church leader Bhekumuzi Mike Sandlana. 64, remains in custody, with his bail hearing postponed to 3 December 2025. All four face a total of 19 counts of corruption related to payments of about R2.4 million allegedly made to secure a favourable ruling in Sandlana’s civil case.
The prosecution stated there was no opposition to bail for Judge Phahlane, her son, and Ndala since there was no evidence suggesting they might flee, and their addresses were verified. The investigation was postponed to 6 March 2026.
A call for transparency and reform
Chief Justice Maya took this opportunity to repeat a long-held request for anyone with evidence of judicial misconduct to report it to the proper authorities. She mentioned that ongoing reforms aim to guarantee complaints are investigated fairly and quickly.
“This situation highlights the need for a strong and transparent system for dealing with complaints against judicial officers. The rule of law does not weaken when a person is held accountable; it becomes stronger,” Maya stated.
She encouraged the public to keep their faith in South Africa’s constitutional order, asserting that the Judiciary remains dedicated to fairness and the pursuit of justice, even in unusual circumstances.
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