Judge Aubrey Ledwaba, currently serving as Deputy Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, is facing intense scrutiny after allegations of bribery surfaced at the Madlanga Commission. Ledwaba has been shortlisted for the position of Judge President of the Gauteng High Court, but his candidacy is now shrouded in controversy.
Judge Aubrey Ledwaba Allegations of Bribery Rock the Judiciary
The allegations against Ledwaba claim that he received R2.5 million to grant bail to Katiso ‘KT’ Molefe, who was accused of murder. Molefe, who was arrested for the murder of Vereeniging engineer Armand Swart, was later granted R100 000 bail in the Pretoria High Court after an earlier denial in the Vereeniging Magistrates Court.
Ledwaba has unequivocally denied these allegations, stating that he did not receive any money to influence his decision. He has expressed his desire to tell his side of the story at the Madlanga Commission and is seeking legal advice.
Call for Special Leave
Judges Matter, a judicial watchdog organization, has called for Ledwaba to be placed on special leave while the allegations are investigated. The organization argues that this would protect the integrity of the judiciary and maintain public confidence.
The allegations against Ledwaba have sparked concerns about the integrity of the judiciary and the need for transparency and accountability. If proven, the allegations could undermine public trust in the Gauteng Division and set a precedent for judicial accountability.
Ledwaba’s Track Record
Ledwaba has a long history of service in the judiciary, having joined the bench in 2005 and been elevated to Deputy Judge President in 2013. He has also served as an acting judge in the Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court of Appeal.
The Office of the Chief Justice confirms a preliminary assessment is underway, but has not announced any administrative measures. A spokesperson stressed that the process respects natural justice and confidentiality, with decisions pending sufficient facts.
Community Reaction
Community activist Thandiwe Molefe added, “We need transparency. The judiciary must be the pillar of accountability, not an arena of secrecy.” Judges Matter plans to engage Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Justice for legislative oversight and has urged the JSC to decide on special leave within 14 days.
The Madlanga Commission is set to continue hearing evidence this week, keeping the nation focused on whether the call for special leave will translate into concrete action.
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