Despite being the only nominee for the position of Gauteng Judge President, Judge Aubrey Ledwaba is not guaranteed appointment to the powerful post.
While it remains unclear why no other candidates were nominated, Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has stressed that Ledwaba’s shortlisting does not amount to an automatic appointment.
Ledwaba, who has been implicated in testimony before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, is the only candidate shortlisted for interview for the position of Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court — a development that has raised concerns in some quarters that the post is being handed to him “on a silver platter”.
Kubayi rejected this view, saying the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) would still be required to follow due process.
“It is not a foregone conclusion. The interview will have to be held, and the fact that he is a deputy judge president and the only nominee does not necessarily guarantee him the position,” Kubayi told Newsnote.
“The JSC is expected to discharge its mandate as usual and make a determination on his suitability. Nothing is guaranteed.”
The JSC on Tuesday released its list of shortlisted candidates for judicial appointments, confirming that Ledwaba is the sole candidate for the Gauteng Judge President vacancy. Interviews are scheduled to take place between April 13 and April 17, 2026.
Ledwaba’s shortlisting comes despite serious allegations raised at the Madlanga Commission, which is probing claims of an alleged bribery scheme linked to high-profile bail decisions. Central to the allegations is the granting of R400,000 bail to multiple murder accused Katiso “KT” Molefe by the High Court, which overturned a decision of a lower court.
Last year, a witness identified as Witness A testified before the commission that he had received information from an informant claiming that R2.5 million had been set aside to influence Molefe’s bail outcome. However, the witness conceded that he could not confirm whether the money was intended for Ledwaba or the public prosecutor involved in the case.
Ledwaba has consistently denied receiving any money in exchange for granting bail and has said he is seeking legal advice. He has also indicated his intention to appear before the commission to present his version of events.
Kubayi declined to comment on the substance of the allegations, saying it would be inappropriate for her to do so.
“Matters of the conduct of judicial officers are dealt with by the Chief Justice. Even in this particular case, if Judge Ledwaba has to answer to an allegation, that will be handled by Chief Justice Maya,” she said.
Ledwaba is no stranger to controversy. In 2019, he issued an order sealing records related to donations made to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s CR17 ANC leadership campaign — a ruling that continues to attract criticism.
He has also previously issued an order requiring police to give 48 hours’ notice before arresting underworld figure and self-styled forensic analyst Paul O’Sullivan.