[MEDIA STATEMENT] Passing of Judge Willem Heath

MEDIA STATEMENT
______________________________________________________________________________
THE SOUTH AFRICAN JUDICIARY MOURNS THE PASSING OF FORMER JUDGE WILLEM HEATH
OCTOBER 2024
______________________________________________________________________________

It is with sadness that the South African Judiciary acknowledges the passing of former Judge Willem Heath, who passed away on 9 October 2024 at the age of 79.

Former Judge Heath’s contributions to the legal profession and his unwavering commitment to upholding justice leave a lasting legacy that will not be forgotten. His career began in the public sector as a prosecutor, where he demonstrated an exceptional dedication to the rule of law.

He went on to serve as a member of the then Attorney General’s staff in the Eastern Cape, before launching his own practice as an advocate where he was later conferred with a Senior Counsel status, a move that further cemented his position as a formidable legal mind.

Former Judge Heath’s ascended to the Bench in 1995, with his appointment as a Judge of the Eastern Cape High Court (Bisho). His reputation, however, extends beyond the courtroom, having chaired the pivotal Commission of Enquiry into corruption, fraud, and maladministration in the Eastern Cape between 1995 and 1997.

From 1997 to 2001, former Judge Heath headed the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), leading the national effort to combat corruption and maladministration. His tenure at the SIU earned him international recognition for his leadership and expertise in rooting out corruption and advancing the cause of justice. The impact of his work, especially in the realm of clean governance and accountability, has been felt across the nation and continues to resonate in the fabric of our legal system today.

As the Judiciary, we express our deepest condolences to the Heath family during this difficult time.

Former Judge Willem Heath’s life will be remembered for his tireless commitment to
justice, his leadership, and his immense contributions to the legal fraternity. May his soul rest in peace.

Former Judge Willem Heath’s life will be remembered for his tireless commitment to justice, his leadership, and his immense contributions to the legal fraternity. May his soul rest in peace.

Issued by the Office of the Chief Justice on behalf of the Spokesperson for the Judiciary, Judge President C Musi.

Download the full Media Statement here.