Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng is a prominent South African figure known for his unique journey from professional football to the judiciary. His life story is a testament to dedication, resilience, and a commitment to justice. He is one of the most respected judges in the country, especially known for his role in the high-profile Senzo Meyiwa trial.
In this article, we’ll walk you through Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng Biography, including his career, age and family.
Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng Biography: Early Life and Background
Born in the 1950s, Ratha Mokgoatlheng was raised in Diepkloof, Soweto, after being born in Alexandra Township, Johannesburg. He grew up during the apartheid era, which shaped his views on justice and equality. His early years were filled with a love for sports, especially football.
Football Career
Before pursuing law, Mokgoatlheng was a talented footballer. He played for famous South African clubs such as Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs. In fact, he was one of the founding members of Kaizer Chiefs, alongside Kaizer Motaung in 1970. His on-field presence was memorable, especially for playing with spectacles. He was even compared to football icons like Jimmy Greaves. His football background helped him become a better person, teaching him discipline and focus.
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Legal Career
After leaving football, Mokgoatlheng studied law at the University of Fort Hare, which also educated leaders like Nelson Mandela. He qualified as an advocate and later became a member of the Black Lawyers Association. His deep understanding of the legal system made him an ideal acting judge starting in 2002. By 2007, he was officially appointed a full High Court judge.
He worked in the Pretoria High Court, where he dealt with many important cases and legal matters. His dedication to the court and upholding justice won him the respect of his peers, including notable figures like Judge Raymond Zondo, Judge Tshifhiwa Maumela, and Mogoeng Mogoeng, former head of the Constitutional Court.
Notable Cases
Throughout his judicial career, Judge Mokgoatlheng has presided over many impactful trials:
- Senzo Meyiwa Murder Trial: In 2023, Mokgoatlheng came out of retirement to oversee this case, which drew nationwide news attention. The trial involves five suspects, including Ntanzi, and has seen delays, dramatic moments, and intense cross-examinations by defence lawyers such as Thulani Mngomezulu. His appointment as the new judge in this high-profile matter was praised for bringing calm and focus to the courtroom.
- Richard Mdluli Sentencing: He sentenced the former Crime Intelligence boss to a five-year prison term for assault and kidnapping, reinforcing the strength of the legal system.
- Lerato Sengadi vs. Tsambo Family: This family dispute over hip-hop legend HHP’s customary marriage highlighted Mokgoatlheng’s sensitivity to family, culture, and constitutional court values.
His handling of these cases earned him admiration from the legal community and the public.
Retirement and Return to the Bench
After years of serving the court, Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng officially retired. However, his unmatched experience was needed again, and in 2023, he was called back to serve in the Senzo Meyiwa trial. This showed his enduring commitment to justice, even beyond retirement. He continues to bring insight and fairness to one of South Africa’s most followed legal battles, taking over from Judge Maumela.
Personal Life
Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng is married and has two children. Despite his news fame, he values privacy. His wife and children live away from public attention, but they remain a solid support system in his life.
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Legacy and Impact
From sports to courtrooms, Mokgoatlheng has influenced generations. As a footballer with Amakhosi roots and a respected judge in the constitutional court framework, he’s a role model. His leadership and wisdom, admired by figures like President Cyril Ramaphosa, continue to shape South Africa’s legal and sports cultures.
As seen in recent posts across news platforms, the legacy of Judge Mokgoatlheng continues to grow. Whether mentoring young lawyers, defending justice, or handling witness testimony with grace, his impact is lasting.
Conclusion
In summary, the Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng Biography: Age, Wife, & Profile tells the story of a man who went from kicking balls on the field with Kaizer Chiefs to laying down the law in the court. From Johannesburg to the Pretoria High Court, his life is a journey of purpose, strength, and transformation. He has stood for justice in some of the most intense trials and is a symbol of hope and wisdom in South Africa.