JSC sets November hearing for Judge Belinda Hartle over alleged racial slur
A Judicial Conduct Tribunal will hear allegations that Eastern Cape Judge Belinda Hartle used a racial slur and swore at a High Court employee. Hartle denies using a racist word.
The Judicial Service Commission has scheduled a hearing for Judge Belinda Hartle in Sandton from November 9 to 18 over allegations of making racial slurs against an employee. The Judicial Conduct Tribunal will consist of retired Justice B H Mbha as President, Judge S E Weiner, and Advocate P Seleka SC. Thozamile Semekazi, an employee at the High Court's East London office, filed the complaint on May 15, 2025, alleging that Hartle used derogatory and racist remarks towards him.
According to Semekazi, Hartle called him a racial slur while reacting to delayed case files and dismissing his presence in the room. Hartle denies using a racist word and claims she only used one expletive, directed at Ms Frost. She also accused Semekazi of filing a false complaint against her. The JCC ruled in December 2025 that there was a prima facie case of gross misconduct and recommended a tribunal investigation.
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