MK Party Opens Criminal Case Against Judge Samuel Makamu Over Alleged Bribery
Acting Johannesburg High Court Judge Samuel Makamu faces a formal criminal investigation after the MK Party lodged a complaint at the Boksburg North Police Station at 5pm on Wednesday. Bouwe Wiersma, a businessman and attorney, originally accused Judge Makamu in August 2025 of soliciting R5 000 to grant leave to appeal an eviction order. The Judicial Conduct Committee (JCC) previously reviewed the complaint and referred the matter to a formal inquiry after determining the allegations could amount to gross misconduct. Judge Makamu has disputed the allegations.
Police Investigation and MK Party Demands for Accountability
MK party spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu stated that the party filed the criminal case to ensure that law-enforcement authorities investigate the allegations alongside the ongoing JCC proceedings. Mahlangu emphasized that the party is not declaring the judge guilty, but wants a transparent inquiry into the matter. Evidence submitted with the complaint reportedly includes WhatsApp communications and banking records concerning the alleged R5 000 bribe. Mahlangu added that Judge Makamu should step aside for the duration of the investigation to protect the integrity of the judiciary.
Tribunal Weighs Allegations of Gross Judicial Misconduct
The judicial conduct process continues independently of the police investigation as a tribunal weighs whether the allegations constitute gross judicial misconduct. The JCC noted inconsistencies in the initial complaint filed by Wiersma but ultimately ruled the matter too serious to dismiss, sending it forward for further examination. Judge Makamu handed down the disputed eviction order against Wiersma in July 2025 before the communication and subsequent bribery allegations allegedly occurred. If the judicial tribunal substantiates the claims, it could recommend severe sanctions against the acting high court judge.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Investigation Into Judge Samuel Makamu
When was the criminal case against Judge Samuel Makamu registered?
The MK Party registered the criminal case at the Boksburg North Police Station at 5pm on Wednesday.
How much money was allegedly solicited in connection with the appeal application?
Bouwe Wiersma alleged that R5 000 was requested in exchange for granting leave to appeal an eviction order.
What specific evidence was submitted to support the bribery allegations?
The submitted evidence reportedly includes WhatsApp communications and banking records detailing the interactions between the parties following the July 2025 eviction ruling.
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