Postponing JSC interviews cost R3m, says DA

The DA has claimed the postponement of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) interviews, resulting from former judge John Hlophe's absence, would incur a cost of R3 million.

- Molefe Seelesta

The Western Cape High Court in Cape Town granted an interim order pending the outcome of a review application, which seeks to overturn parliament's decision to appoint Hlophe to the JSC.

Advocate Ngwako Maenetje, representing the JSC, argued the commission's decision to proceed with interviewing 51 candidates from Monday to 16 October - for various court positions in Hlophe's absence was appropriate.

Maenetje said the JSC was obligated to adhere to court rulings.

He countered Advocate Dali Mpofu's claim that the filing of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party's application for leave to appeal led to the suspension of the interdict.