Mkhwebane acquittal does not end LPC bid to strike her from advocates’ roll
The Legal Practice Council says Mkhwebane’s acquittal on perjury charges will be considered in its application to have her struck from the roll of advocates, but the Gauteng High Court will make the final decision.
The Legal Practice Council (LPC) has ruled that only the High Court can determine whether former public protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane, acquitted of perjury charges, remains fit to be an advocate. While the Pretoria Magistrate's Court acquitted Mkhwebane due to lack of evidence in her investigation into Absa/Bankorp receiving funding during apartheid, the LPC maintains the authority to assess her suitability.
Mkhwebane's removal from her roles as public protector and member of Parliament has occurred, but the LPC will still consider the matter. Advocacy groups supporting her perjury charges, Outa and Accountability Now, still seek to strike her from the advocates' roll, citing concerns over corruption and accountability. Mkhwebane's supporters, the Busisiwe Mkhwebane Foundation, argue her acquittal ends a lengthy legal battle and highlights her commitment to accountability.
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