Mkhwebane says the system weaponised to financially burden me
While former Public Protector (PP) Busisiwe Mkhwebane's response to Wednesday’s ruling against her was vitriolic, her husband David Skosana has also taken up the fight.
Mkhwebane naturally criticised the dismissal of her application for a R10m gratuity payout by the Gauteng High Court (Pretoria).
According to a TimesLIVE report, Mkhwebane expressed her frustration and disappointment, claiming the legal system was ‘being used to financially burden' her.
‘The recent judgment has struck a disheartening chord with many who observe the legal landscape and the intricate dance between law and justice. The case reflects a persistent pattern of legal proceedings that have seemingly been weaponised to financially burden and corner me, as the former PP of SA,’ she said.
‘Judge Omphemetse Mooki's decision to dismiss my urgent application on 9 October for a R10m gratuity – following my removal from office in September 2022 – adds another chapter to this ongoing saga. Such a relentless pursuit of costs paints a picture of choreographed persecution, where legal costs and proceedings are used systematically to drain resources and morale.’
This latest defeat comes after a legal blow earlier this month when the SCA dismissed Mkhwebane’s application to appeal against the judgment that led to her impeachment in 2023, notes the TimesLIVE report.
‘The persistent use of the courts, not just as instruments of justice, but seemingly as tools of attrition against me, underlines a broader critical view of how such institutions may be leveraged against individuals,’ she said.
‘For those observing, it raises questions about the integrity and impartiality of the legal processes when they appear entangled with political machinations. The repeated legal and financial pressures directed at me seem to echo a narrative where the system is put to the test, revealing underlying inequities and systemic manipulation.’
She added: ‘In this legal environment, it becomes crucial for advocates, observers and critics alike to remain vigilant. They must question whether the courts are merely upholding the law or if they are being manipulated to serve as instruments of persecution against those who stand their ground against systemic pressures.’
Article disclaimer: While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this article, it is not intended to provide final legal advice as facts and situations will differ from case to case, and therefore specific legal advice should be sought with a lawyer.
