South African Judiciary mourns passing of retired Judge Eberhard Bertelsmann
The South African Judiciary is mourning the passing of retired Judge Eberhard Bertelsmann, who died on July 31, 2026, at the age of 79. Chief Justice Mandisa Maya and members of the Judiciary expressed sadness and condolences, highlighting Bertelsmann's distinguished service and commitment to the rule of law, judicial independence, and fair administration of justice. Bertelsmann, who would have turned 80 on August 21, was a judge in the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria for over 16 years until his retirement in August 2016. Known as "The Rottweiler" in legal circles for his strict courtroom standards, he was celebrated for defending human rights, exposing state corruption, and protecting vulnerable citizens. Even after retirement, he remained dedicated to justice, running a pro bono legal clinic for impoverished communities. Born in Germany in 1946, he studied law at Stellenbosch University and Unisa. Details of his funeral are yet to be announced.