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Sikhumbuzo Nyathi

Thandeka Moyo Court Reporter
BULAWAYO magistrate Singandu Jele has been axed from his job by the Judicial Services Commission after he was found guilty of misconduct for skipping court to drink beer in his office.

Jele, who worked at the Bulawayo Magistrates’ Court, was placed on suspension in March this year together with regional magistrate Sikhumbuzo Nyathi who faced corruption allegations.

While Jele’s matter was concluded, Nyathi’s case is still pending.

In a letter addressed to Jele, Judicial Service Commission secretary Justice Rita Makarau said the magistrate had been discharged with effect from May 8 following a disciplinary hearing.

“Please be advised that the Disciplinary Authority, after a careful consideration of evidence and all documents pertaining to your misconduct charges, has determined that you be found guilty as charged,” said Justice Makarau.

“Accordingly, it has been ruled that you be discharged from the Judicial Service Commission with effect from May 8, 2015. You may either appeal to the Labour Court or request the Commission in writing through this office to review the determination of penalty the Disciplinary Authority has imposed.”

Justice Makarau said Jele was going to be paid cash in lieu of accrued vacation leave days.

Jele allegedly missed a court session while drinking and was found sleeping by one of the magistrates who shopped him to the Commission.

The glass of beer found on his desk was used as an exhibit during his hearing held in Bulawayo recently.

Meanwhile, Chief Magistrate Mishrod Guvamombe said magistrate Nyathi’s ruling was pending as the matter has not yet been finalised.

“We’re not yet done with Nyathi’s ruling mainly because those in charge of his hearing had travelled out of the country. They’re back and I’m sure his ruling will be out soon,” said Guvamombe.

Nyathi allegedly acted in a corrupt way and sent $305 through EcoCash to a Lupane-based magistrate in a bid to influence her judgment against a suspect, Clement Wanda, early this year.

A whistle-blower allegedly called Guvamombe and Nyathi was suspended. He disputes the corruption allegations.