Makhubela thrown under the bus for bias towards foreigners

Retired Justice Sisi Khampepe has made the decision to remove advocate Thulani Makhubela from the Usindiso building fire commission of inquiry proceedings due to his alleged bias towards foreign nationals.

The commission is investigating the circumstances that led to the tragic Marshalltown fire, which claimed the lives of 77 people.

Retired Justice Sisi Khampepe

Khampepe cited “overwhelming evidence of bias” as the reason for Makhubela’s removal, stating that there was no need to rebut the allegations.

Lawyers representing the Socio-Economic Rights Institution and The Inner City Federation had raised concerns about Makhubela’s views on illegal immigrants, which were evident through his tweets and public support for anti-immigrant groups such as Operation Dudula and #PutSouthAfricansFirst.

Must read: Diepsloot murder accused claims cops lured him to police station

The fact that Operation Dudula has been accused of starting the fire further raised concerns about Makhubela’s ability to remain impartial when it comes to issues involving foreign nationals.

Thulani Makhubela is an alleged supporter of Operation Dudula

Nigel Branken, a social worker working with the fire victims, expressed concern over Makhubela’s appointment by Premier Panyaza Lesufi, given his alleged support for Operation Dudula.

77 people died after the building caught fire

Branken emphasized the need for a partial commission of inquiry in order to uncover the truth behind the fire.

He also highlighted the ongoing rhetoric surrounding foreign nationals in the country, stating that the crisis has been created by South Africans themselves and that the Department of Home Affairs has not fulfilled its responsibilities.

“We have created this crisis ourselves and home affairs has not done its job. We see that with the high court finding against the City of Joburg,” Branken said.

The removal of Makhubela from the commission of inquiry is a significant step towards ensuring a fair and unbiased investigation into the Marshalltown fire.

Must read: Manhunt launched after suspects killed farmer and injured wife