The Democratic Alliance (DA) has condemned the wasteful expenditure of R100,143.68 in public funds on a personal protection order for Magistrate Ezra Morrison, demanding immediate repayment and accountability.
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development has failed to justify why taxpayer money was used to cover legal fees for Morrison’s private case against journalists an administrative task she could have handled herself.
Misuse of Public Funds
Last year, Magistrate Morrison sought a protection order against journalists who exposed her failure to refer a minor, now accused of murdering Deveney Nel, to the Children’s Court.
The boy, previously accused of raping an 11-year-old girl at age 13, was deemed a high-risk offender by psychiatrists, yet no action was taken.
In response to a DA parliamentary question, the Minister evaded accountability, vaguely claiming the matter was “intrinsically linked” to Morrison’s duties. However, the costs – covering consultations, drafting, court appearances, and settlement -were grossly inflated for a process designed to be accessible to ordinary citizens.
Double Standards in Justice
Nicholas Gotsell, DA NCOP Member on Security & Justice, said: “While vulnerable South Africans – women, children, and the poor – struggle to access justice through backlogged courts, the Minister prioritizes the legal elite. This abuse of power cannot go unchallenged.”
The Protection from Harassment Act and Domestic Violence Act are meant to protect victims, not shield officials from scrutiny. Morrison’s case was a private matter, yet the state footed the bill.
DA’s Next Steps
The DA will:
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Demand repayment of the R100k from Magistrate Morrison.
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Push for parliamentary scrutiny of the Minister’s failure to justify the spending.
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Call for reforms to prevent further misuse of public funds.
“The Minister’s disregard for accountability is unacceptable. The DA will ensure this abuse is not swept under the rug,” Gotsell added.
