Justice Khampepe Dismisses Recusal Applications by Mbeki and Zuma

The chairperson of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Inquiry, Justice Sisi Khampepe, has dismissed applications for her recusal made by former presidents Jacob Zuma and Thabo Mbeki. Both leaders expressed concerns about her impartiality.

Zuma claimed that Khampepe showed bias against him, while Mbeki argued that her past connections with the TRC and the National Prosecuting Authority could compromise her fairness. However, Justice Khampepe highlighted that the inquiry has faced many delays and emphasized the importance of keeping the process moving without interruption.

In her ruling, Khampepe pointed out that both Zuma and Mbeki had delayed in making their requests and failed to provide strong reasons for their concerns. As a result of this decision, both former presidents are now required to testify before the commission.

This inquiry was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa in May 2025 to look into claims of political interference in the prosecution of crimes related to the apartheid era. The commission’s work aims to ensure that justice is served and that past wrongs are addressed.