The debate about the personal independence of judges is especially relevant, given recent and current assertions that judicial independence has been compromised on several occasions. This paper helps us analyze the impartiality of judges, their appointment, security of tenure, complaints and disciplinary proceedings, the removal of judges, and their remuneration. Some challenges to judicial independence in South Africa - largely relating to impartiality and bias - are identified and discussed, and some conclusions are presented. Lukhona Mnguni is joined by scholar and advocate of the high court, Lunga Siyo.