President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially written to Western Cape High Court Judge President John Hlophe informing him of his ‘immediate removal from office’.

The Star reports in a letter dated 5 March – signed by Justice & Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola – it is indicated that Ramaphosa’s decision to remove Hlophe was recorded and signed on 1 March.

‘I write to inform you that pursuant to the JSC’s finding that you are guilty of gross misconduct; and a resolution adopted by the National Assembly with a supporting vote of more than two-thirds of its members calling for your removal from office, President Ramaphosa has decided, in terms of section 177(2) of the Constitution, to remove you from office with immediate effect. A copy of the President’s minute is attached for your ease of reference,’ read Lamola’s letter to Hlophe.

Lamola’s spokesperson Chrispin Phiri confirmed that Hlophe would lose his benefits and pension. 

Hlophe’s lawyer Barnabas Xulu said that Ramaphosa acted on a process that was illegal.

‘We have noted the President’s decision and we must indicate that we are awaiting the Constitutional Court to pronounce and maybe help shed some light on some of our concerns,’ said Xulu.

Xulu mentioned that Hlophe’s matter was more than about his impeachment and argued that there was a pattern playing out when dealing with professionals in the country.

Despite all the allegations levelled against Hlophe, which ultimately led to his demise, he maintained – throughout the various processes – that he was innocent.

Full report in The Star

See also full Cape Argus report