RACISM CHARGE: Judge Hartle’s future hangs in balance over alleged k-word and insults to clerk
A court clerk stood by his claims that a high court judge racially insulted him, breaking down in tears as he described how the incident left him depressed and affected both his work and personal life.
Eastern Cape High Court Judge Belinda Hartle is facing allegations of racial insults and unprofessional conduct towards court clerk Thozamile Semekazi, which could result in her removal from the Bench. The incident occurred in May 2025 when Semekazi claims he was called the "k-word" and subjected to derogatory language by Hartle after delays in court file delivery.
Hartle allegedly became frustrated and swore at Semekazi, who is a 20-year veteran of the court system. Despite Hartle's subsequent apology in a WhatsApp message and a "peace offering" left on Semekazi's desk, Semekazi maintains that his conduct was unprofessional and that Hartle's apology was a form of bribery. The Judicial Conduct Tribunal, chaired by retired Supreme Court of Appeal Justice Boissie Mbha, is now investigating the allegations to determine if Hartle's behavior constitutes gross misconduct.
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