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gauteng high court

Health

Healthcare Professionals Face Disciplinary Action Over Recalled iDEXIS Drugs

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

South African health regulators—the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC), and the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)—have issued a stern warning to medical professionals: continuing to prescribe, dispense, or stock recalled iDEXIS weight-loss injections will result in formal disciplinary action. The products, which include various formulations of semaglutide and tirzepatide, were classified as a Class I, Type A recall in June due to critical safety concerns and regulatory breaches.

Regulatory Enforcement and Professional Consequences

Regulators are moving beyond simple warnings, signaling that they intend to hold individual practitioners accountable. According to the joint statement released by the three bodies, any healthcare professional found to be in possession of, or actively prescribing, the recalled iDEXIS products risks formal disciplinary proceedings under the Medicines and Related Substances Act, 101 of 1965.

SAPC Registrar and CEO Vincent Tlala emphasized the severity of these sanctions, noting that pharmacists and pharmacy support personnel could face the removal of their names from the professional register. The regulators argue that because the products were recalled due to significant safety risks, any practitioner continuing to supply them is “knowingly” endangering public health.

Did you know?

A Class I, Type A recall is the most serious category of medicine recall issued by SAHPRA.

Findings from the iDEXIS Inspection

The regulatory crackdown follows a joint inspection conducted in May at the premises of iDEXIS (Pty) Ltd, which trades as Sentra Pharmacy in Silverton, Pretoria. SAHPRA and the SAPC uncovered several “critical regulatory breaches” during the site visit.

Key findings reported by the regulators include:

  • Illegal Sourcing: The unauthorized importation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
  • Lack of Quality Control: An absence of testing to verify the potency, purity, and identity of the finished products.
  • Manufacturing Risks: Inadequate sterile conditions, which regulators warned created an elevated risk of contamination.
  • Pharmacovigilance Failures: The company lacked a system to monitor and report adverse drug reactions, despite reports of patients being hospitalized after using the products.

The Legal Dispute Over Compounded Medicines

While regulators maintain that the products pose a direct threat to public safety, iDEXIS has contested the findings. The company asserts that its compounding processes are fully compliant with the Medicines and Related Substances Act and the relevant Good Pharmacy Practice Guidelines.

iDEXIS maintains that its APIs are sourced from internationally approved manufacturers and have been independently tested. The company claims that over 200,000 patients have utilized its compounded medicines without reported adverse reactions. However, the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria ruled in June that iDEXIS had been manufacturing large quantities of injections using an unregistered form of semaglutide. The court clarified that only registered APIs may be used when compounding medicine for specific patients on an individual prescription basis.

Future Trends in GLP-1 Regulation

The global surge in demand for drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro has outstripped supply, creating a vacuum often filled by compounded alternatives.

Pro Tip: Patients currently using weight-loss injections should verify the registration status of their medication via the official SAHPRA website to ensure their batch is not part of an active recall.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why were the iDEXIS products recalled?

SAHPRA issued a Class I, Type A recall due to critical regulatory breaches, including illegal importation of ingredients, lack of product testing, and inadequate sterile manufacturing conditions.

Can a pharmacist still dispense these products?

No. The SAPC and SAHPRA have explicitly warned that any pharmacist or medical practitioner found dispensing or stocking these recalled products will face formal disciplinary action and potential removal from the professional register.

How can I check if my medication is safe?

Patients are directed to consult the official SAHPRA recall notice, which provides a comprehensive list of all affected batches. If you have concerns, contact your prescribing doctor immediately.

Have you been affected by medication recalls? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below, and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on health policy and regulatory changes.

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Entertainment

From Overcharging to Redemption: A Lawyer’s Journey

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Gauteng High Court in Pretoria has denied the readmission of former advocate French Bezuidenhout to the legal profession, ruling that he failed to demonstrate genuine remorse for his role in a multi-million rand billing scandal involving the Road Accident Fund (RAF). Judge Jan Swanepoel’s judgment confirms that Bezuidenhout, who was struck from the roll over a decade ago, did not fully disclose the extent of his misconduct, which included overcharging the RAF by R5.9 million between February and November 2009.

Why do courts deny readmission to disbarred legal professionals?

Courts determine readmission based on whether an applicant has undergone a genuine transformation of character. According to Judge Swanepoel, mere apologies are insufficient if the applicant continues to minimize their past actions. In the case of Bezuidenhout, the court found that his claim of being a “reformed person” was contradicted by his continued insistence that he had not charged for work he did not perform. The judge highlighted that Bezuidenhout charged multiple trial fees on single days for matters that did not proceed, a practice that accounted for 615 separate instances of overcharging.

Did you know?

In 2012, 13 members of the Pretoria Bar faced disciplinary action for “double-briefing” and overreaching in RAF matters. While 12 advocates were able to continue their careers after paying fines or serving suspensions, Bezuidenhout was the only one removed from the roll due to the scale and nature of his conduct.

How does “double-briefing” impact the legal profession’s integrity?

Double-briefing—the practice of accepting multiple trial instructions for the same date and billing for each as if a full trial occurred—erodes public trust in the legal system. Records from the Pretoria Bar Ethics Committee indicate that this practice persisted despite explicit circulars warning counsel against it. The court noted that Bezuidenhout’s refusal to acknowledge the full scope of his “ill-gotten gains” during his readmission application served as a primary indicator that he had not fully grasped the gravity of his ethical breaches.

How does "double-briefing" impact the legal profession's integrity?

What are the long-term consequences of professional misconduct?

The case of Bezuidenhout illustrates that the consequences of ethical violations in the legal sector can span decades. Despite 14 years having passed since the initial misconduct, the court remains focused on the applicant’s ability to provide a full and honest account of their past. Legal experts often point to the “duty of candor” as the most critical requirement for readmission. If an applicant fails to disclose the true extent of their earnings or the nature of their violations, the court generally views this as an ongoing lack of integrity, effectively barring their return to practice.

Pro Tip: Maintaining Ethical Compliance

For legal practitioners, the best defense against professional ruin is strict adherence to fee circulars and transparent billing. Always maintain contemporaneous records of hours worked and ensure that billing practices align with the specific rules of your local Bar or Law Society.

Pro Tip: Maintaining Ethical Compliance

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can a struck-off advocate ever return to practice? Yes, but only if they can prove a complete rehabilitation of character, which requires full disclosure of past misconduct and genuine remorse.
  • Why was French Bezuidenhout treated differently than his colleagues? While 12 other advocates were disciplined and remained in the profession, the court viewed Bezuidenhout’s conduct as uniquely obstructive and his overcharges as more severe.
  • What is the role of the Pretoria Bar Ethics Committee in these cases? The committee investigates breaches of conduct and sets the initial disciplinary framework, though the High Court holds the final authority over disbarment and readmission.

Have questions about the evolving standards of legal ethics? Subscribe to our legal newsletter for regular updates on professional conduct rulings and industry news.

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Entertainment

Celebrity Husband Claims Poverty in Spousal Support Battle

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has dismissed an interim maintenance claim brought by a wife against her husband, ruling that the applicant failed to provide a full and frank disclosure of her personal finances. Acting Judge S. Van Aswegen presided over the Rule 43 application, where the court found that the applicant’s failure to be transparent about her own financial status precluded the court from granting relief.

Why do courts require full financial disclosure in maintenance disputes?

South African law mandates that applicants in Rule 43 proceedings must provide a complete picture of their financial standing to ensure a fair assessment. According to the judgment, the court cannot assist a party who does not present their financial situation honestly. In this case, the applicant claimed to be in financial distress with no savings or income, yet the court determined her evidence was insufficient to warrant an interim maintenance order.

Why do courts require full financial disclosure in maintenance disputes?
Did you know?

Rule 43 of the Uniform Rules of Court provides a streamlined, cost-effective procedure for interim relief in matrimonial matters, including maintenance, custody, and access, specifically designed to bypass the delays of a full trial.

How do lifestyle claims impact maintenance rulings?

The applicant requested maintenance based on an expenditure of R87,000 per month, citing a previous lifestyle that included luxury goods and regular beauty maintenance. She alleged that her husband, a musician and businessman, had the means to support this, while she had been left financially dependent after being dismissed from his companies. Conversely, the husband argued that their previous comfortable lifestyle was largely supported by financial assistance from his friend, world-renowned DJ Black Coffee (Nkosinathi Maphumulo).

What role does third-party financial support play in divorce?

The respondent provided evidence, including an affidavit from Maphumulo, confirming that the DJ had intervened to assist the couple during periods of career instability and medical expenses for their son. According to the respondent, his role on world tours with Maphumulo was an act of friendship rather than formal employment. This highlights a growing trend in high-stakes divorce litigation where the origin of funds—whether personal income or third-party benevolence—becomes a central point of contention in determining “reasonable” maintenance needs.

SA's Divorce Laws | High Court in Gauteng reserves judgment

Comparison of Claims

Claimant Financial Position
Wife (Applicant) Claims total unemployment and reliance on debt.
Husband (Respondent) Claims reliance on third-party aid from DJ Black Coffee.
Pro Tip:

When preparing for a maintenance hearing, ensure all bank statements, debt obligations, and employment records are meticulously organized. Courts prioritize objective financial evidence over subjective lifestyle descriptions.

Comparison of Claims

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a Rule 43 application? It is a legal process used in the High Court to obtain interim relief, such as maintenance, pending the finalization of a divorce.
  • Why was the application dismissed? Acting Judge S. Van Aswegen ruled that the applicant failed to disclose her financial position fully, which is a requirement for the court to grant maintenance.
  • Can third-party contributions be considered in maintenance? Yes, courts may examine the source of funds—including gifts or loans from friends—to determine the actual financial reality of the parties.

For more information on family law and navigating legal proceedings in South Africa, subscribe to our weekly legal newsletter or browse our archives for expert insights on matrimonial disputes.

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News

Ngizwe Mchunu Retracts Defamatory Statements Against Julius Malema After Court Ruling

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Media figure Ngizwe Mlando Mchunu has issued a formal, unconditional public apology and retraction to Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) President Julius Malema. This development follows two binding court orders issued in May 2026, which required Mchunu to legally address a series of highly inflammatory and defamatory remarks made against the political leader.

In a statement released on Thursday, Mchunu confirmed that he sought legal counsel and now fully understands the legal implications of the court directives. He has committed to refraining from publishing similar statements in the future and has formally withdrawn all defamatory remarks made both before and after the court orders were issued.

Addressing the Allegations

The retraction addresses several severe and unfounded claims Mchunu previously leveled against the EFF leader. These include accusations that Malema received 60 million from Nigerian drug dealers and illegal foreigners, as well as claims that he looted the collapsed VBS Mutual Bank and misappropriated funds in Ekurhuleni and through On Point Engineering.

From Instagram — related to Mutual Bank, Expert Insight

Beyond the financial allegations, Mchunu’s prior commentary included personal insults, such as referring to Malema as a “political devil,” a “dead snake,” and a “dog.” During an interview in Johannesburg on April 30, Mchunu had further challenged the politician to confront him at his location in Nkandla and stated that Malema “must go to jail.”

Unbeliavable Ngizwe Mchunu apologized to CIC Julius Malema, here is why
Did You Know? The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria ruled that Mchunu’s statements constituted defamatory conduct and explicitly ordered him not to repeat the allegations, whether “explicitly, impliedly, or otherwise.”
Expert Insight: This retraction represents a significant legal turning point. By moving from aggressive public challenges to a formal, unconditional apology, Mchunu is likely attempting to mitigate the potential consequences of failing to comply with the High Court’s directives. The outcome may serve as a reminder of the legal boundaries surrounding political discourse and the potential for court-mandated accountability in cases of defamation.

Potential Implications

With the issuance of this formal retraction, the legal pressure on Mchunu regarding these specific comments will subside, provided he adheres to the court’s prohibition on repeating the claims. Supporters of Mchunu may now face a period of adjustment as he calls upon them to accept his decision to comply with the legal requirements.

Potential Implications
Ngizwe Mchunu Retracts Defamatory Potential Implications

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the apology from Ngizwe Mlando Mchunu?
The apology follows two binding court orders handed down in May 2026 that required Mchunu to answer for defamatory remarks made against Julius Malema.

What specific claims were retracted?
Mchunu retracted claims that Malema received 60 million from illegal foreigners and Nigerian drug dealers, as well as accusations regarding the looting of VBS Mutual Bank and the misappropriation of funds in Ekurhuleni and On Point Engineering.

What was the court’s ruling regarding these statements?
The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria ruled that the statements were defamatory and prohibited Mchunu from repeating the allegations in any manner, including explicitly or impliedly.

How do you view the role of the judiciary in curbing inflammatory rhetoric in public discourse?

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News

Thabo Mbeki Challenges TRC Summons Amid Recusal Bid

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Former president Thabo Mbeki has launched urgent court proceedings in the Gauteng High Court, Johannesburg, to challenge a summons requiring him to testify before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). The legal move follows an attempt by the commission to compel testimony from Mbeki and former justice minister Bridgette Mabandla this week.

The dispute centers on Mbeki’s ongoing legal challenge to have retired Judge Sisi Khampepe recuse herself as the chairperson of the TRC inquiry. While that matter is set to be heard by the Constitutional Court on June 29, the commission issued summonses to Mbeki and Mabandla on May 14, demanding their appearance on Wednesday and Thursday, respectively.

Legal Challenges and Allegations of Bias

Mbeki and Mabandla are seeking an urgent order to suspend the summonses pending the outcome of their challenges before both the Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court of Appeal. They further intend to ask the court to declare the summonses unlawful, unconstitutional, and invalid.

Legal Challenges and Allegations of Bias
Thabo Mbeki TRC inquiry

In an affidavit, Mbeki stated, “Once we have given evidence before the Commission in its current constitution, that evidence cannot be recalled or expunged.” He argued that by forcing their testimony now, the commission is attempting to lend legitimacy to proceedings that may eventually be declared unlawful.

Mbeki characterized the commission’s actions as an abuse of power, noting that the body had not used its coercive powers to compel their attendance since oral hearings began in February. He suggested the sudden move is designed to “steamroll” the investigation before the Constitutional Court can rule on the recusal application, labeling the commission’s conduct as acting in “bad faith.”

Did You Know?

Although the commission began its oral hearings in February, it did not exercise its “coercive powers” to compel testimony from Thabo Mbeki and Bridgette Mabandla until May 14.

Potential Implications

The core of the conflict lies in the definition of an impartial commission. Mbeki maintains that he and Mabandla have a constitutional right to appear before an impartial body and that forcing them to testify before Judge Khampepe—who has already refused to recuse herself—undermines their legal efforts. He warned that ignoring the summons could lead to criminal charges, creating a situation he describes as potentially invasive.

TRC Hearings | Hearings continue on Wednesday

Expert Insight:

The stakes here involve a fundamental tension between the commission’s mandate to finalize its work and the rights of high-profile witnesses to due process. If the Gauteng High Court grants the interim interdict, it would effectively freeze the commission’s ability to compel testimony from these individuals until the higher courts provide clarity on the chairperson’s status. Should the commission continue to push for testimony, it risks further legal challenges regarding the validity of any evidence gathered while the impartiality of the chair remains under judicial review.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Thabo Mbeki refusing to testify at this time?
Mbeki is not objecting to providing evidence in principle, but he objects to doing so while his legal challenge for Judge Sisi Khampepe to recuse herself from the commission is still pending before the Constitutional Court.

Frequently Asked Questions
Sisi Khampepe Constitutional Court

What is the primary goal of the current court application?
Mbeki and Bridgette Mabandla are seeking an urgent order to suspend the summonses and eventually have them declared unlawful, unconstitutional, and of no force.

What happens if the court does not grant the interdict?
Mbeki stated that if he and Mabandla are unsuccessful in their legal challenges, they will subject themselves to the commission.

Do you believe the commission’s push for testimony serves the interest of justice, or does it prematurely validate a process currently under judicial scrutiny?

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