Adults ought to be free to interact in any type of relationship as alongside as mutual: Mbenenge – SABC Information

Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge says the notion that a judge should never seek to have a romantic relationship with a person of a “lower class, age, status or category at work” is difficult to fathom.

Mbenenge is accused of allegedly sexually harassing Judges’ Secretary Andiswa Mengo through in-person interactions and electronic communication between June 2021 and November 2022, an allegation he denies.

When probed on the stated notion put by his counsel, Judge Mbenenge held the view that people should be viewed as adults who are free in engage in any form of a relationship, as long as there is mutual consent.

“That is a notion that is hard to fathom – the notion that a judge cannot have affection. I just say affection may not be interested in somebody. I believe that there’s a fallacy when it comes to that. I think what is important is to view people as adult individuals. They are free to engage in whatever form of relationship as long as there’s mutual consent,” adds Judge Mbenenge.

During his testimony, Mbenenge said that the sexual assault charges levelled against him are malicious and are meant to shame him.

[WATCH]
Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge says sexual harassment charges against him are malicious and meant to shame him. pic.twitter.com/PjySjhxVA8

— SABC News (@SABCNews) July 7, 2025

Mbenenge has also denied sending explicit pictures to the complainant.

[WATCH]
Judge President of the Eastern Cape, Selby Mbenenge denies sending explicit pictures to the complainant. pic.twitter.com/dIExAbeUbd

— SABC News (@SABCNews) July 7, 2025