President Ramaphosa Offers Condolences on the Death of Retired Justice Clement Temba Sangoni

Pretoria – President Cyril Ramaphosa has conveyed his deep sadness over the passing of former Judge President of the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court, Justice Clement Temba Sangoni.

Justice Sangoni, who retired in 2017, sadly passed away today, Tuesday, 10 June 2025, at the age of 78 after a brief illness.

President Ramaphosa extended his sympathy to the family of the late Judge Sangoni, who was a respected senior traditional leader of the Qokolweni-Zimbane Traditional Council in Mthatha.

In a statement, President Ramaphosa remarked: “The loss of Justice Sangoni is a significant blow to his family and community, marking a considerable loss to our judiciary and legal legacy.

“He dedicated his life to justice and worked tirelessly to improve the living conditions of communities in the Eastern Cape and beyond through sound, progressive legal principles.

“Throughout his tenure, the Eastern Cape Judiciary addressed essential issues critical to the development of this economically important province, both collectively and individually.

“Judge Sangoni served the Eastern Cape not only from the Bench but also as an active participant in community affairs as a traditional leader, an experience that enriched his adjudication across various cases.

“We will remember his contributions to the rule of law and the profound wisdom he brought to justice within our nation and the communities he served so well.

“May his soul rest in peace.”

In related news, Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi expressed her “deep sadness” over Justice Sangoni’s passing.

Minister Kubayi offered her “heartfelt condolences” to the Sangoni family.

She described the late Justice Sangoni as a pillar of the judiciary and a highly respected senior traditional leader of the Qokolweni-Zimbane Traditional Council in Mthatha.

Minister Kubayi stressed that Justice Sangoni’s dedication to upholding the law and ensuring justice for all will be sorely missed.

“His passing is a tremendous loss, not only to the justice system but also to our nation, particularly to the community under the Qokolweni-Zimbane Traditional Council, whom he served with unwavering dedication and distinction, and who will remember him for his steadfast commitment to justice and community leadership,” Minister Kubayi remarked.

“Justice Sangoni’s departure creates a void in the legal community that cannot be filled. His contributions to the judiciary and the country will always be honored and remembered.”

Justice Sangoni had an impressive career that spanned over four decades, beginning as a clerk in the Department of Justice and culminating in his appointment as Judge President of the Eastern Cape Division in 2010.

His vision and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the judiciary and improving access to justice.

Minister Kubayi further noted: “Justice Sangoni’s passing comes at a crucial juncture as South Africa strives to enhance access to justice.

“His death coincides with the Department’s intensified efforts to develop Traditional Courts Regulations aimed at transforming existing Traditional Courts to align with constitutional values and principles.

“Justice Sangoni, whose life and career encompassed both judicial and traditional leadership roles, would have made significant contributions to this vital work.

“The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development stands in unity with the Sangoni family, relatives, friends, and colleagues as we mourn the loss of this remarkable individual.”

In a related statement, Chief Justice Mandisa Maya and the entire Judiciary expressed their condolences over Justice Sangoni’s passing.

Chief Justice Maya characterized the former Judge President of the Eastern Cape High Court as “a jurist of immense intellect, unwavering principles, and a committed servant of justice.”

Justice Sangoni’s distinguished career was marked by his deep commitment to the rule of law and the transformation of South Africa’s legal framework.

As Judge President of the Eastern Cape High Court, he served with honor until his retirement in 2017, leaving a lasting legacy in our legal system.

His leadership was vital in addressing systemic challenges within the Eastern Cape Judiciary, including case flow management and improving access to justice in historically marginalized communities such as Mthatha.

His life epitomized the principles of justice, humility, and service – values he upheld as one of the three executors of Nelson Mandela’s estate, alongside Advocate George Bizos SC and Justice Dikgang Moseneke.

The Chief Justice extended heartfelt condolences to the Sangoni family, the Eastern Cape Judiciary, and the AbaThembu community.

“Judge Sangoni’s legacy is etched not only in the decisions he rendered but also in the lives he touched and the respect he brought to the profession,” remarked the Chief Justice.

“While we feel diminished by his passing, we are enriched by his enduring contributions.”

Details regarding memorial services will be provided in due course.

Under the Chief Justice’s leadership, the Judiciary invites the public to join in honoring a life dedicated to significant purpose and lasting impact.