Judge Hartle’s exchange with court employee detailed at tribunal

The Judicial Conduct Tribunal has heard details of a contentious exchange between Judge Belinda Hartle of the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court and court employee Thozamile Semekazi. Hartle faces allegations of gross misconduct for using racist and derogatory language towards Semekazi in May of the previous year. Previously, Hartle apologized to Semekazi for using a swear word and admitted her conduct was unprofessional.

However, she denies ever employing racist language, claiming her frustration stemmed from the late delivery of court files, which left her with inadequate time to prepare for proceedings.

Tribunal leader Advocate Benny Kalakgosi presented a WhatsApp conversation between the two at the time of the incident. The exchange reads: "Hello Mr Semekazi. I realize I used a swear word in expressing my frustration just now. But it was not intentional and certainly not directed at you personally. I apologize if it offended you.

Kind regards, Belinda." Hartle stated that it was the first time in her 23-year career that she had been sworn at by someone in Semekazi's position. She described Semekazi's behavior as humiliating, hurtful, and professionally unprofessional.