President Ramaphosa Offers Condolences on the Death of Retired Justice Clement Temba Sangoni
Pretoria – President Cyril Ramaphosa has conveyed his deep sorrow following the passing of the former Judge President of the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court, Justice Clement Temba Sangoni.
Justice Sangoni, who retired in 2017, sadly left us earlier today, Tuesday, 10 June 2025, at the age of 78 after a brief illness.
President Ramaphosa expressed his condolences to the family of the late Judge Sangoni Aah! Dilizintaba, a prominent traditional leader of the Qokolweni-Zimbane Traditional Council in Mthatha.
President Ramaphosa remarked: “The passing of Justice Sangoni is a significant loss for his family and community, and it marks a profound loss for our judiciary and legal heritage.
“Judge Sangoni devoted his life to justice, enhancing the living conditions of communities in the Eastern Cape and beyond through sound, progressive jurisprudence.
“Throughout his tenure, the Judiciary in the Eastern Cape collectively and individually tackled issues vital to the development of this economically crucial province.
“Judge Sangoni not only served the people of the Eastern Cape from the Bench but also engaged actively in community life as a traditional leader – a role that enriched his adjudication of a wide range of cases brought before the courts.
“We will treasure his contributions to the rule of law and the profound wisdom of justice in our nation and among the communities he served with excellence.
“May his soul find peace.”
In related news, Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi expressed that she has “learned with sorrow” about Justice Sangoni’s demise.
Minister Kubayi extended her “heartfelt condolences” to the Sangoni family.
She referred to the late Justice Sangoni as a stalwart of the judiciary and a highly regarded senior traditional leader of the Qokolweni-Zimbane Traditional Council in Mthatha.
Minister Kubayi highlighted that Justice Sangoni’s unwavering commitment to upholding the law and ensuring justice for all will be greatly missed.
“His passing is a monumental loss not only to the justice system but also to the nation, especially to the community under the Qokolweni-Zimbane Traditional Council, whom he served with dedication and excellence, and who will remember him for his steadfast commitment to justice and community leadership,” remarked Minister Kubayi.
“Justice Sangoni’s departure leaves a gap in the legal fraternity that cannot be filled. His contributions to the judiciary and to the country will forever be cherished and remembered.”
Justice Sangoni’s distinguished career 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 were instrumental in shaping the judiciary and enhancing access to justice.
Minister Kubayi further noted: “Justice Sangoni’s passing occurs at a pivotal time as South Africa strives to expand access to justice.
“His death coincides with the Department’s intensified efforts to develop Traditional Courts Regulations aimed at reforming existing Traditional Courts to align them with constitutional values and principles.
“Justice Sangoni, whose life and career bridged both judicial and traditional leadership spheres, would have significantly contributed to this crucial work.
“The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development stands united with the Sangoni family, relatives, friends, and colleagues in mourning the loss of this remarkable individual.”
In a related statement, Chief Justice Mandisa Maya and the entire Judiciary expressed their grief over Justice Sangoni’s passing.
Chief Justice Maya described the former Judge President of the Eastern Cape High Court as “a jurist of towering intellect, unwavering principle, and a devoted servant of justice.”
Justice Sangoni’s esteemed 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 distinction until his retirement in 2017, leaving a lasting legacy in our legal system.
His leadership played a crucial role in addressing systemic challenges within the Eastern Cape Judiciary, including case flow management and access to justice in historically marginalized regions like Mthatha.
His life personified the principles of justice, humility, and service – values he upheld as one of the three executors of Nelson Mandela’s estate, along with 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 judgments he rendered but also in the lives he enriched and the dignity he brought to the profession,” the Chief Justice stated.
“We are diminished by his passing yet enriched by his contributions.”
Details regarding memorial services will be announced in due course.
The Judiciary, under the Chief Justice’s guidance, invites the public to join in honoring a life of significant purpose and lasting impact.