A Remote Control Chief

One outcome of having a Chief Justice running events from outside the country is that disputes between judges, which might have taken place quietly within the corridors of power, have to be reduced to fax or email. This makes a fascinating spectacle. For example, look at this letter from the Acting Chief Justice to a former Acting Chief Justice regarding a high-profile murder trial (HERE). It is yet more evidence that the current divisions within the courts are having both real and perceived effects on the administration of justice. Surely, if Simelane is convicted, the fact that the Chief Justice involved himself personally in the case, and especially pressured the trial judge to terminate the services of the pro deo counsel (free, court-appointed lawyer), there would be serious grounds for appeal? Lucky Howe, the pro deo counsel, will be arguing so.

ADDENDUM: Lucky Howe has since tendered his resignation as attorney for the accused (HERE).