In a dramatic legal twist that’s stirring public debate and courtroom corridors alike, Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng has shared his thoughts on the stunning collapse of the extradition case against Moroadi Cholota.
On June 3, 2025, Judge Phillip Loubser of the Free State High Court ruled that the extradition request from South Africa to the United States was unlawful, citing the National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) failure to follow proper legal procedures. As a result, Cholota will no longer face charges in South Africa related to the R255 million Free State asbestos tender scandal.
🧑🏽⚖️ Judge Mokgoatlheng Weighs In: “A Systemic Breakdown”
Reacting to the ruling, Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng did not mince words. Known for his deep understanding of both legal principles and prosecutorial accountability, he said the decision is a “stinging indictment of procedural negligence” by the NPA.
“When corners are cut in law, justice doesn’t bend—it breaks,” Mokgoatlheng stated.
“Extradition isn’t a game of politics. It’s a serious legal mechanism that requires precision, discipline, and respect for international protocols.”
⚖️ A Legal Blunder With Political Ripples
The judgment has thrown a spotlight on the NPA’s handling of high-profile corruption cases, especially those emerging from the Zondo Commission findings. Cholota, once a key witness, was later reclassified as an accused, a move that raised eyebrows and ethical questions. The court’s decision emphasized that such a shift must be handled with strict procedural integrity, something the NPA failed to demonstrate.
💸 The Bigger Picture: What’s Next for the Asbestos Scandal?
With Cholota now off the hook, the focus shifts back to other key figures implicated in the R255 million tender fraud, including political heavyweights and former officials. Legal experts warn this case could set a precedent for other high-profile prosecutions—raising the stakes for the NPA’s credibility and competence.
🚨 Public Reaction: Relief, Outrage, or Just Fatigue?
The public remains divided. Some see Cholota as a victim of political maneuvering, while others believe this is another lost opportunity to tackle systemic corruption. What’s clear is that trust in South Africa’s justice system is on trial, just as much as the accused.
In the words of Judge Mokgoatlheng:
“Justice denied is more than just a legal failure—it’s a democratic betrayal. We must do better.”
