Faizel Patel – 05/03/2021

(Twitter: @FaizelPatel143)

Respected academic and activist, University of Johannesburg Professor Salim Vally says the ruling by the Judicial Conduct Committee for Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng to retract and apologise for his comments on the Israeli and Palestinian conflict is a significant milestone.

Mogoeng came under severe criticism following his remarks during a webinar with The Jerusalem  newspaper, where he lamented the South African government’s policy regarding the Israel-Palestinian conflict and said that it would have greater influence if it displayed a more balanced approach.

Pro-Palestine South African organisation Africa 4 Palestine laid a complaint about Mogoeng’s comments.

Speaking to Radio Islam, Vally says Mogoeng has lost tremendous credibility.

Vally says the ruling by the JCC must be seen as a victory.

“It’s quite clear to us that Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng was not merely speaking innocently. The very timing of the interview, the nature of the newspaper The Jerusalem Post that (surcaptus) that webinar. The issues discussed was very calculated actually.”

Vally says it’s unclear if Mogoeng will apologise.

“We suggest that he does not take the view of a group which supports apartheid, racism, massacres of unarmed Palestinian civilians and children.”

Vally says the SA BDS coalition, solidarity groups, trade union allies, social movements and faith-based groups will continue to challenge Mogoeng including apologists for the “apartheid regime.”

Listen to the interview with Salim Vally