Former Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng paid a heartfelt homage on Tuesday, August 19, to outgoing Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, who has retired after a long 12-year stint at the Constitutional Court.
Mogoeng’s statements were not only a tribute to Zondo’s achievements to the court, but also a reflection on their common path and the ideals that have inspired Zondo throughout his career.
Mogoeng began by reflecting on their early days, emphasizing the unwavering determination that both he and Zondo demonstrated from a young age.
“There was something about Mlungisi Zondo becoming Chief Justice that was clear from the start. “Raymond was hungry to succeed in life, and that hunger brought us together,” Mogoeng said.
Mogoeng stated that their paths intersected at university, where they and a few other dedicated colleagues were fully focused on their academics, frequently choosing to sip water rather than engage in any diversions.
Mogoeng explained: “We were never seen with a can of anything whatsoever, and that gave us the speed to focus on what mattered the most was our studies.”
Their dedication to perfection prompted them to pursue advanced degrees, obtaining an LLB from the University of Natal and an LLM from UNISA.
Mogoeng emphasized that this was no coincidence, citing their common drive to thrive without relying on others’ sympathy.
“We were determined not to have anybody pity us but to succeed,” Mogoeng told me.
A large chunk of Mogoeng’s eulogy was devoted to Zondo’s steadfast integrity. He recalled a time when Zondo, who had been passed up for a post in 2009, was told to humble himself in front of those who could help him advance. Zondo’s attitude was determined: “I would rather die and go back to the attorney position than go to any man, regardless of who he is, and beg him to facilitate my upward mobility.”
This choice, according to Mogoeng, demonstrated Zondo’s character in a society where honesty is often lacking.
Mogoeng also lauded Zondo’s leadership, especially during difficult periods for the judiciary. He recounted how Zondo played a significant role in a dispute between Constitutional Court justices and Judge President Hlophe, urging the judiciary to show leadership and intervene. “Zondo’s heart has always been in the right place,” Mogoeng explained.
Zondo’s contributions to the judiciary were not just about his legal knowledge, but also about his desire to make a difference. Mogoeng highlighted how Zondo and his wife had quietly helped poor young people pursue their education throughout the years, using their own means rather than seeking external assistance.
Mogoeng reflected on Zondo’s tenure at the Constitutional Court, highlighting the “dizzying number of well-written judgments” he authored, leaving an unparalleled record.
Mogoeng’s confidence in Zondo’s ability was clear when he nominated him Deputy Chief Justice and even asked him to fill in for him as President of the African continent’s judicial organization.
As Zondo prepares to retire, Mogoeng offers sympathetic advice: “My friend, you’ve done well.” My only plea is that, as a workaholic, you remember that you have a wife who has been waiting far too long for you to finish your work.”
Mogoeng closed his homage by underlining that true leadership is about function, not rank. He pushed Zondo to continue serving as a role model and guide for future generations, even after retiring.
“Leadership is functional; leadership that matters is functional but not positional,” Mogoeng said, reminding Zondo that his legacy is secure, not in titles held, but in the impact made.
