The University of Fort Hare has honored Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga with an Honorary Doctorate of Laws, his third, in a ceremony attended by various dignitaries. Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Mzukisi Njotini, presented the award, citing Madlanga's unwavering integrity, dedication to justice, and service to humanity as the reasons for this recognition. These values are fundamental to the university's mission and vision.
In addition to the honorary doctorate, the Faculty of Law at Fort Hare has named an international moot court competition after Justice Madlanga. This competition, known as The Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga International Moot Court Competition, is a rare tribute reserved for living legends. The university acknowledged Madlanga's extensive contributions to the legal profession, including his representation of South Africa at the International Court of Justice in The Hague and his leadership of the Marikana Inquiry.
Justice Madlanga's career spans various fields, including legal education, human rights law, and constitutional matters. Born and raised in Njijini, near Mount Frere, he pursued his BJuris degree at the University of Transkei and later studied for an LLB at Rhodes University. His early career included lecturing at the University of Transkei and an internship at Amnesty International's Washington, DC office.
Madlanga's judicial career began when he was appointed a judge of the Mthatha High Court at the age of 34, making him the youngest in history. He subsequently held positions at the Supreme Court of Appeal and was appointed to the Constitutional Court in 2013. After his retirement from the Constitutional Court in 2025, Madlanga was appointed to chair the Commission of Inquiry into alleged corruption in the South African Police Services.
The Commission of Inquiry, led by Justice Madlanga, is tasked with examining allegations of criminal syndicates within the South African Police Services (SAPS) and claims of political interference. The inquiry's work includes making recommendations and referring matters for further investigations. Its findings will be crucial in determining the next steps for the relevant authorities.
Students at Fort Hare University have welcomed the naming of the moot court competition after Justice Madlanga. Christian Buthelezi, a 3rd-year LLB student, expressed his excitement, stating that participating in the competition associated with Justice Madlanga's name is an honor. He emphasized that Madlanga's legacy of fighting for justice and being fearless in executing his duties serves as a reminder that there are no limits to what they can achieve.
Key points
- The University of Fort Hare has conferred an honorary doctorate on Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, recognizing his dedication to justice and service to humanity.
- The Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga International Moot Court Competition has been established in his honor, acknowledging his significant contributions to the legal profession.
- Justice Madlanga currently chairs the Commission of Inquiry into alleged corruption in the South African Police Services.
