Free State Judge Lepona Joshua Lekale has been on sick leave for eight years, earning a judge's salary and benefits without performing any duties.

A Judicial Conduct Tribunal is investigating his medical capacity to remain on the bench, revealing that his state-subsidised Mercedes GLC vehicle, petrol, and services cost over R500,000 annually.Lekale, 62, was diagnosed as permanently legally blind in 2024, with his condition described as 'end stage' by an ophthalmologist.

Despite submitting numerous sick notes for diabetes-related illnesses, including a leg amputation and vision loss, Lekale refused medical boarding, citing a traditional healer's warning that it would anger his ancestors.

The tribunal, chaired by retired judge Xola Petse, is probing a complaint by Free State judge president Cagney Musi that Lekale's incapacity could lead to his impeachment.Lekale, representing himself, attempted to keep proceedings private but was overruled due to public interest.Evidence shows his condition has progressively deteriorated, with medical certificates often coinciding with court recesses.

Musi highlighted the optics of paying a judge's salary while an acting judge performs duties, stressing the need to protect public trust in the judiciary.

Lekale's belief in the traditional healer's advice conflicts with specialist medical opinions, raising questions about the balance between personal beliefs and institutional accountability.The hearing continues as the tribunal assesses whether Lekale's conduct undermines judicial integrity.