FURY & APOLOGY: Judge in Senzo Meyiwa trial says sorry after ‘race row’

Ratha Mokgoatlheng

Cape Town – Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng, presiding over the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, has publicly apologised in court for his outburst last week, which included remarks perceived as having racial undertones.

He acknowledged that his conduct was inappropriate and uncharacteristic, especially given his decades-long legal career.

“I apologise to the accused, the lawyers, the public, the judges, magistrates, students, religious leaders — to everyone in South Africa who felt hurt or insulted by my actions,” he said.

Mokgoatlheng said that both the Judge President and Deputy Judge President had reprimanded him, and he expressed sincere remorse to his colleagues, the accused, and the public.

Mokgoatlheng reflected on his family history, including his father’s role in the anti-apartheid movement, to counter claims of racism.

He also mentioned personal grief over the loss of his son, an advocate, adding emotional context to his apology.

The incident that triggered the controversy involved his reaction to defence advocate Charles Mnisi’s request to skip court for the Comrades Marathon.

The judge strongly criticised this, saying that such actions undermined the seriousness of the trial.

He suggested that a white advocate would not have made such a request, a remark that drew backlash and concern from the Law Society of South Africa

“This is what happens in a South Africa run by blacks. I can tell you now, even if you call Uncle Tom, I don’t think a white advocate will ever have the gall to ask me that. Never,” said Mokgoatlheng at the time.

“I’m not going to respond. If Mr Mnisi doesn’t want to come to court on Monday, that’s his business. I will be in court and the JP (judge president) expects me to be in court.”

Mokgoatlheng’s comments drew sharp criticism from Parliament’s justice committee chair Xola Nqola, who labelled them “totally unacceptable” and called for the judge to withdraw them and apologise.

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