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Judge’s sex scandal sparks innuendos and conspiracy theories

todayJanuary 17, 2025 59

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Possibly a relationship gone sour is how some South Africans are reading between the lines of the controversy between Eastern Cape High Court Judge President, Selby Mbenenge, and a secretary of the high court.

Claims of a request for oral sex, laughing emojis, Mbenenge’s private part being referred to as a python, and (being) on at oven temperature are just some of the racy exchanges that have allegedly happened between Andiswa Mengo, and Judge Mbenenge.

Mengo wants the Judge President held to account for allegedly sexually harassing her.

She has been testifying before the Judicial Conduct Tribunal since Monday.

She says she played along with the Judge’s sexual advances because she feared losing her job.

The mother of three has been a fodder for gossip for, sometimes, forgetting her replies to some of the Judge’s suggestive WhatsApp messages, while vividly remembering every text, picture and emoji Mbenenge sent, among others.

Her explanations for some of her replies to Judge Mbenenge have also come under scrutiny with some social media users doubting the sincerity of her complaint.

Other South Africans have, however, hailed Mengo for her courage.

Mengo laid the complaint against Judge Mbenenge in 2021.

The matter has been adjourned to Monday, where Mengo will continue with her testimony in a fight she believes highlights the scourge of abuse and sexual harassment of women in the workplace.

The 63-year-old Mbenenge, known as a devout Christian, could be impeached and lose a lifetime salary as well as other perks should he be found guilty of misconduct.

Some believe the case should serve as a lesson to men. Written by Odirile Rabolao

Written by: Lindiwe Mabena

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