Mogoeng to decide on Hlophe complaints

Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng will make the decision over whether the complaints against Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe are valid, according to a report on Thursday.

Four years ago Hlophe was accused of gross misconduct by Constitutional Court judges over allegations that he attempted to influence their rulings.

This was particularly related to corruption charges against now President Jacob Zuma, The Star newspaper reported.

If Mogoeng decides the complaints are valid, he can refer the issue to a committee which will make recommendations to the Judicial Services Commission (JSC).

The power then rests with it as to whether the complaints should be investigated by the judicial conduct tribunal -- a three-member team including two judges selected by Mogoeng.

The recent developments have been met with criticism from the non-profit Freedom Under Law organisation, who have challenged the original decision by the JSC to clear Hlophe.