Durban – Retired Judge President Achmat Naeem Jappie has passed away, the Office of the Chief Justice announced on Wednesday, 22 April 2026.
On behalf of the South African Judiciary, Chief Justice Mandisa Maya has expressed “deep sadness” at the passing of the retired Judge President.
“His passing is a great loss to the Judiciary and the legal profession,” said Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, who described him as a distinguished jurist who served the people of South Africa with honour and integrity .
“He will be remembered for his dedicated service, principled leadership, and lasting contribution to the administration of justice in South Africa.
“The Judiciary extends its heartfelt condolences to his wife, Judge Soraya Hassim, his children, family, friends, colleagues, and all who were touched by his life and service.”
Judge Jappie was born in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape and shortly thereafter moved to Durban, where he stayed until his demise at the age of 70.
He was appointed to the Bench in 1998 and went on to serve the people of South Africa with distinction for more than two decades.
During his judicial career, he served as deputy Judge President and was later appointed Judge President of the KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court.
He was also appointed as an acting judge of the Constitutional Court and had a short stint at the Labour Appeal Court, reflecting the confidence placed in his leadership and legal expertise.
Judge Jappie was widely admired for his calm temperament, fairness, humility, and commitment to justice.
He earned the respect of colleagues, legal practitioners, and court users alike for his integrity and deep knowledge of the law.
Following his retirement in 2021, Judge Jappie continued to serve the country, including as Chairperson of a Judicial Conduct Tribunal.
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa posted his condolences on X saying: “I extend my deep condolences to the family, friends, former colleagues, and associates of Achmat Naeem Jappie, former Judge President of KwaZulu-Natal, who has passed away at the age of 70.
“Justice Jappie was a longstanding champion of justice in our nation through his rich contributions to jurisprudence and his role in advancing effective administration of our courts.
“We also appreciate his service on tribunals dealing with judicial conduct.
“During his 28 years as a judge, Justice Jappie entrenched the rule of law.
“He ensured that the law protected the interests and dignity of those who deserved relief, and that those who breached the law felt the consequences of their actions or attitudes.
“May Allah have mercy on him.”
