The Judicial Conduct Tribunal investigating allegations of sexual harassment against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge concluded its hearings on July 10, 2025. Judge Mbenenge took the stand for several days, where he faced questions about accusations made by court secretary Andiswa Mengo, including claims that he exposed himself in his chambers and sent her explicit pictures[1][2].
The proceedings saw evidence leader Salome Scheepers finishing her cross-examination, during which she pressed Mbenenge about the alleged explicit image. Mbenenge maintained his innocence, repeatedly stating, “I did not send such pictures,” and challenged Scheepers to provide proof or a date for the alleged incident, which she could not, claiming the picture had been deleted[2].
During the hearings, Mbenenge argued that the central issue should be whether his advances were unwelcome, not a matter of morality. He insisted that all interactions with Mengo were between consenting adults and that the decision to delete WhatsApp messages was mutual, motivated by privacy concerns as his family also had access to his phone. Mbenenge stressed, “The issue here is whether my advances were wanted or unwanted. Let’s stay clear of moral issues. The standard is legal and objective and not based on morality or religious codes”[5].
The tribunal examined video footage from November 14, 2022, corresponding to one of the incidents in question. The footage reportedly did not show Mengo entering Mbenenge’s chambers, which he cited as evidence refuting the allegations. However, it was acknowledged during testimony that footage from certain corridors was missing, leaving some questions unresolved[1][6].
With the evidentiary phase concluded, the matter is adjourned until October 21 and 22, 2025, when oral arguments from the parties will be heard. The tribunal will then deliberate and issue its findings[1][2].