Former Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe has opened up about life after his dismissal by President Cyril Ramaphosa, revealing that his three children stepped in to support him financially, ensuring that he never felt the sting of unemployment.
Speaking candidly during a recent public engagement, Hlophe shared that after being removed from the judiciary earlier this year, he returned to his farm where he found peace and continued his daily routine without disruption.
“When the President fired me, I went home to my farm. My children gave me money equivalent to what I used to earn as a judge. So, I never felt unemployed,” Hlophe said, drawing murmurs of admiration from attendees.
The embattled former judge explained that despite his removal, he maintained his sense of responsibility toward those who depended on him. He continued to pay his farmworkers and sustain operations on his property, emphasizing that he viewed his situation not as a setback but as an opportunity to reconnect with his family and his roots.
“I continued to care for my workers and pay them as usual,” he said. “My children made sure that I was never short of anything. They reminded me that dignity doesn’t come from a title but from how one carries themselves.”
Hlophe’s remarks come months after a long legal and political battle that culminated in his impeachment—the first of its kind in democratic South Africa. His removal followed findings of gross misconduct related to alleged interference in Constitutional Court matters dating back to 2008.
While his dismissal was seen by many as the end of a turbulent judicial career, Hlophe’s latest comments paint a picture of resilience and familial solidarity. Observers note that his calm tone and reflective demeanor suggest a man who has made peace with the past and is charting a new path forward.
Political analysts say Hlophe’s story underscores a broader conversation about legacy, family, and personal integrity in the face of public scandal.
“His remarks show that life after public service can be grounded in personal strength and family support,” said one legal expert. “It’s a rare glimpse into how high-profile figures cope after their fall from grace.”
Despite his controversial past, Hlophe remains a figure of interest in South Africa’s legal and political discourse. His ability to maintain financial stability and emotional composure after his dismissal continues to draw public curiosity—and, in some quarters, respect.
“I’m at peace,” he concluded. “I’ve worked hard all my life, and now I get to rest and see my children take care of me the same way I took care of them.”
