Zero Tolerance: OCJ Launches Forensic Probe into Mthatha High Court Bribery Claims

The Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) has reiterated its unwavering stance against fraud and corruption in South Africa's judiciary following disturbing allegations implicating officials at the Mthatha High Court in the Eastern Cape. These claims have sparked concern over the integrity of court operations and triggered a forensic investigation into alleged misconduct.

Allegations of Bribery Surface at Mthatha High Court

The controversy stems from reports suggesting that court officials at Mthatha High Court are engaged in a bribery scheme. Allegedly, they have been demanding payments from advocates and legal professionals for services that fall squarely within their official duties. These include locating supposedly misplaced files, producing court transcriptions, and scheduling trial dates — all fundamental tasks expected to be executed without any financial incentive.

The OCJ became aware of these allegations through an anonymous letter submitted in December 2024. The letter painted a troubling picture of systemic exploitation within the court, prompting immediate action by the judicial oversight body.

Immediate Action: Forensic Investigation Underway

In response to the allegations, the OCJ initiated a full-scale forensic investigation in accordance with its Fraud Prevention and Anti-Corruption Policy. This investigative process is being conducted in close collaboration with law enforcement authorities. However, the OCJ has maintained a prudent approach by limiting the release of specific details to the media, emphasizing the need to avoid compromising any current or future legal proceedings.

“The OCJ reiterates its zero-tolerance approach to fraud and corruption,” the office declared in a public statement. “The organisation treats complaints on alleged acts of fraud and corruption with seriousness, urgency and sensitivity, to safeguard the integrity and legality of any processes that may unfold.”

Commitment to Integrity and Transparency

While the public and legal communities await further updates, the OCJ has committed to full transparency once the investigation has progressed sufficiently. It acknowledged the heightened public interest in the matter, recognizing that the allegations threaten to erode trust in judicial institutions.

“The OCJ appreciates the public interest generated by the perception of impropriety in the Mthatha High Court and is prepared to account fully and transparently to the public on this matter in due course,” the statement read.

Strategic Discussions and the Digital Future of Courts

In a proactive measure to strengthen accountability and modernize operations, Chief Justice Mandisa Maya is set to meet with Acting Judge President of the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court, Judge Zamani Nhlangulela, on Tuesday. The meeting aims to address the allegations and discuss the expedited implementation of the Court Online System — a digital platform designed to streamline case management and enhance transparency.

The adoption of the Court Online System is seen as a critical step toward reducing human interference in judicial administration, thereby minimizing opportunities for corrupt practices.

Encouraging Whistleblowing and Stakeholder Cooperation

The OCJ emphasized the importance of cooperation among all stakeholders — including the media, the public, and legal professionals — in combating fraud and corruption. It encouraged individuals with credible information to report misconduct through official anti-corruption hotlines or via the OCJ’s complaints management portal.

Members of the public can lodge complaints or provide evidence through the government’s anti-corruption hotline https://www.gov.za/anti-corruption/hotlines, or directly via the OCJ’s dedicated portal at https://www.judiciary.org.za/index.php/complaints/ocj-complaints.

A Test of Trust for South Africa’s Judiciary

As the investigation unfolds, the Mthatha High Court incident serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist within judicial systems. The OCJ’s swift response, including its forensic audit and digital transformation plans, sends a clear message: ethical governance and judicial integrity are non-negotiable pillars of South Africa’s democracy.