Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng has publicly apologised after an outburst many saw as racially charged. The incident occurred when he criticised defence advocate Charles Mnisi for asking to miss court on Monday to run the Comrades Marathon, saying:
“I don't think a white advocate can have the gall to ask me that.”
Mnisi was absent on Monday after completing the marathon. His colleague, Sipho Ramosepele, appeared on his behalf.
Addressing court on Monday, Mokgoatlheng admitted his behavior was “questionable and incorrect” and said he had been reprimanded by the Judge President. He added that his wife urged him to apologise publicly, even comparing his conduct to that of corrupt lawyers.
He expressed deep regret:
“I apologise to the accused, the lawyers, the public, judges, magistrates, students, religious leaders — to everyone in South Africa who felt hurt or insulted.”
Mokgoatlheng, who has served 26 years as a judge, said accusations of racism hurt him, citing his politically active upbringing around figures like Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu.
He invited accused persons in the courtroom to request his recusal if they felt they couldn’t get a fair trial.