Michael Ramodibedi, who was
sacked
as Chief Justice by Swaziland’s autocratic King Mswati III on Wednesday has
left the kingdom. It is thought he is returning to his home country of Lesotho
after he has received medical attention in South Africa.
The quick departure
brings to an end speculation that he might face criminal charges in the courts.
In April, a warrant
was issued for Ramodibedi’s arrest on 23 charges relating to alleged
abuse of power. Later, the warrant was suspended and Ramodibedi faced a hearing
by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).
Ramodibedi left his government
house in the Swazi capital Mbabane on Friday (19 June 2015) and left Swaziland through
the Ngwenya border post into South Africa. Local
media reported that he was driven away by his son Napo and escorted to
the border post by police.
The JSC heard
evidence against Ramodibedi on 9 June
2015. Ramodibedi was not present at the hearing, citing illness. No
defence against the allegations was given.
Ramodibedi faced three charges. They were:
1. Abuse of office – In the allocation of the Swaziland
Revenue Authority (SRA) matter which was heard to hear a case brought by
Ramodibedi against the SRA for taxing
his gratuity to the amount of E128 000 (US$12,800).
2. Abuse of office – In the hearing of the Impunzi
Wholesalers (PTY) Ltd v The Swaziland Revenue Authority, in which it is
alleged wealthy businessmen offered judges E2 million to help them win their
case against the SRA involving the importation of goods into the kingdom.
3. Abuse of office in order to achieve an ulterior
motive – In the hearing of the Estate
Policy matter, where it is alleged Ramodibedi appointed three acting High
Court judges to hear the case when their terms of office had expired.
Following the hearing, the JSC reported to King Mswati,
who rules Swaziland as sub-Saharan Africa’s last absolute monarch. The King
appoints the government and top judges. Political parties are barred from
taking part in elections and all groups advocating for democracy are banned under
the Suppression of Terrorism Act.
The King then made the decision to sack his Chief
Justice.
See also
SWAZI CHIEF JUSTICE’S HISTORY OF ABUSE
SWAZI
KING SACKS CHIEF JUSTICE
ARREST
WARRANT FOR CHIEF JUSTICE
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