By Dr. Cathleen Powell, University of Cape Town — The Conversation Africa — 7 October 2020
Former South African president Jacob Zuma demanded that Deputy Chief Justice Ray Zondo recuse himself from the state capture inquiry, claiming bias — without providing evidence. The Constitutional Court’s test for judicial impartiality requires a “reasonable, objective and informed person” to find that a judge “has not or will not bring an impartial mind to bear.” Zuma’s “firm view” alone is insufficient. By casting doubt on the impartiality of the Chair, Zuma is probably buying time while discrediting a vital institution for ending corruption in South Africa. Facts matter — it’s the job of courts and commissions to work out what they are.