Former Judge Takalani Raulinga has dismissed claims that his political history might affect his impartiality, asserting that his past membership with the African National Congress (ANC) does not influence his judicial duties.
This statement follows criticism from the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party regarding his designation as the oversight judge for the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC).
The party urged Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi to reconsider the appointment, referencing Raulinga’s prior affiliation with the ANC.
Addressing reporters in Pretoria on Sunday, Raulinga affirmed his independence, stating his commitment to the oath he swore upon becoming a judge.
“I used to be a member of the ANC. I never held any office in the ANC. And I have been working in different entities. I’ve been a magistrate. I’ve been a prosecutor. I’ve been a regional court president.
“In all these instances, I took an oath of being fair and not favour anybody. And when I became a judge, I took an oath without fear, without favour and without prejudice. And I still commit to that with the disclosures that I’ve made.”
Raulinga clarified that although he provides reports to the Justice Minister, his ultimate accountability lies with Parliament, specifically through its portfolio committee.
“The minister might have appointed me. I report matters to her. In other words, all the complaints that we do are reported to the minister. I don’t have to say anything further to the minister. It’s just a question of reporting. Otherwise, I am accountable through the portfolio committee to Parliament, and which is appropriate.”
