Thokozile Mnguni
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has lodged a formal complaint with the Magistrates Commission against Chief Magistrate Tuletu Tonjeni over her handling of proceedings in a Kwaggafontein case earlier this month.
The complaint relates to court proceedings held on 15 and 18 May 2026 involving the State and taxi boss Madoda Johannes Sibanyoni, also known as Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni, and his co-accused.
The NPA says the complaint stems from a series of rulings during the hearings, including a finding of contempt of court against a prosecutor, the issuing of a warrant of arrest, and the striking of the matter from the roll.
The case involves extortion and money laundering charges, with the accused including Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni and his co accused Bafana Sindane, Phillimon Msiza and Mvimba Masilela.
Proceedings at the Kwaggafontein Magistrates Court were disrupted after state prosecutor Mkhuseli Ntaba failed to appear in court, despite being instructed earlier by the presiding magistrate to attend. The court ruled that the matter be struck from the roll.
NPA spokesperson Kaizer Kganyanyago said the decision to escalate the matter was not taken lightly, adding that it raised “serious institutional concerns relating to judicial decorum, procedural fairness and the proper administration of justice.”
He said the complaint is aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the judiciary and preventing similar incidents in the future.
“The investigation of the complaint to the Magistrates Commission would serve the broader purpose of protecting the integrity of the magistracy, ensuring accountability, and preventing recurrence of similar irregularities in future proceedings,” he said.
National Director of Public Prosecutions Andy Mothibi said the process would help restore confidence in the justice system.
“This process will go a long way in protecting the image of the criminal justice system and in setting the record straight,” he said.
The NPA has also filed a notice for leave to appeal relating to the contempt ruling and related orders.