Former presidents Jacob Zuma and Thabo Mbeki have dismissed suggestions that their planned recusal bid is intended to delay justice for the families of apartheid era victims.
The two former heads of state have submitted applications to the commission of inquiry into the Truth and Reconciliation Commission matter, requesting the removal of the chairperson, retired justice Sisi Khampepe.
The inquiry, appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa in May, is responsible for examining the long standing delays in prosecuting cases linked to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
The commission is already months behind schedule and has requested an extension after failing to begin hearings in 2025. It has also been tied up with several procedural matters, including an unsuccessful effort to have chief evidence leader Ishmael Semenya recused.
Zuma and Mbeki, who are expected to testify before the inquiry, have raised concerns about Khampepe’s ability to remain impartial.
They argue that her previous roles, which include serving as a commissioner in the original Truth and Reconciliation Commission in the nineties and as deputy director of public prosecutions, may compromise the fairness of the process.
Khampepe has questioned the timing of their challenge, noting that both former presidents were aware of her appointment when it was announced in May. Zuma and Mbeki say they only acted after receiving Rule 3.3 notices informing them that they were implicated.
The commission is scheduled to hear the recusal application on Friday.
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