Dr Vuyo Mthethwa, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: People and Operations at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) and her father, former DUT Chancellor and retired Judge President Vuka Tshabalala. Mthethwa wrote a biography on her father and launched On Trial on Human Rights Day.
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Deputy Vice-Chancellor: People and Operations at Durban University of Technology (DUT), Dr Vuyo Mthethwa, has written a powerful biography of her father, former DUT Chancellor and retired Judge President Vuka Tshabalala.
The book titled On Trial was launched at an event held on Human Rights Day and attended by members of the judiciary, academia and civil society.
In a momentous celebration of justice, resilience and legacy, the powerful biography of her father looks at Judge Tshabalala’s pivotal role in shaping South Africa’s legal landscape.
DUT Senior Director of Corporate Affairs, Alan Khan was Programme Director at the event, which took place at the Killie Campbell Museum on the Berea, a venue rich with historical significance.
Dignitaries in attendance included former Minister of Justice Jeff Radebe, Judge President Thoba Poyo-Dlwati, Justice Leona Theron, Justice Kate Pillay, Justice Achmat Jappie, Justice Thumba Pillay, Advocate Marumo Moerane (SC), Advocate Nazeer Aboobaker (SC) and DUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Thandwa Mthembu, among others.
Mr Khan said the presence of legal luminaries, members of the DUT Council, represented by Council Chairperson Wiseman Madinane and representatives from the judiciary, highlighted the profound impact Judge Tshabalala has had on the profession.
Mr Khan opened the proceedings with a warm welcome, acknowledging Judge Tshabalala’s enduring influence in the fight for justice.
“Today is not just about the unveiling of a book; it is a celebration of legacy, wisdom and the indomitable spirit of justice. And what better day to host this event than on Human Rights Day, a day when we reflect on the past, acknowledge the present and inspire the future,” he said.
On Trial chronicles Judge Tshabalala’s groundbreaking journey from being the first black advocate in the province of Natal in 1969, at a time when pupillage was reserved for white candidates, to his historic appointment as the province’s first black Judge President in 2000. The book details the many challenges he faced, including being denied accommodation due to the Group Areas Act and battling systemic discrimination within the legal fraternity.
The book launch also featured a poignant poem rendition by Judge Tshabalala’s granddaughter, Pili Mthethwa, adding a deeply personal touch to the occasion. Her words eloquently encapsulated the trials, triumphs and enduring spirit of her grandfather, who listened proudly as she captivated the guests with her poetry.
Throughout his career, Judge Tshabalala presided over significant political trials amid tensions between the African National Congress (ANC) and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP). The book also delves into the tragic assassination of his wife, Pearl Tshabalala, a pivotal event that deeply affected him and his family.
Dr Mthethwa’s narrative further explored Judge Tshabalala’s resilience in overcoming professional barriers, including a highly publicised legal battle in 1998 when 14 sitting judges opposed his appointment as Deputy Judge President. Despite immense pressure, he triumphed, paving the way for a more inclusive judiciary.
Reflecting on her father’s legacy, Dr Mthethwa expressed her hope that On Trial would serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for justice.
“My father’s journey is more than a personal story; it is a testament to the struggle for human rights in South Africa. His life’s work was about breaking barriers so that others could follow,” said Dr Mthethwa.