22 January 2024
It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that Lawyers for Democratic Reform in Swaziland (LAW-DERSWA) acknowledges the untimely passing of Judge Josiah Matsebula. The news of his demise has sent shockwaves through the legal community, leaving us in mourning for the loss of a true giant in the field of law.
Judge Matsebula will be remembered as a distinguished member of the judiciary, a stalwart defender of the Rule of Law, and a jurist who embodied the sanctity of the bench. His legacy is indelibly marked by his unwavering commitment to justice and the principles that underpin a fair and impartial legal system.
In our reflections on Judge Matsebula’s life, we cannot overlook his memorable courtroom engagements with lawyers and his passion for vintage cars, which added a unique and endearing dimension to his persona. These anecdotes serve as a testament to the multifaceted nature of the man we mourn today.
It is particularly poignant that Judge Matsebula has departed during the month when our celebrated human rights lawyer, Thulani Maseko was tragically gunned down by alleged state agents. This confluence of events only deepens our collective sense of loss and underscores the challenges faced by those who strive for justice and the rule of law in Swaziland.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Matsebula family during this difficult time. May they find solace in the memories of a remarkable individual who dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice. As we mourn his passing, let us honour his legacy by redoubling our efforts to foster a culture of respect for the rule of law in Eswatini.
Judge Matsebula’s principled stance during the tumultuous period when the Tinkhundla government sought to undermine the independence of the judiciary will forever be etched in our collective memory. When the repressive forces attempted to remove Chief Justice Stanley Sappire on grounds of age, Judge Matsebula stood resolutely by his side, boldly asserting that his esteemed colleague’s age far exceeded the contested limit.
In this time of grief, let us reflect on Judge Matsebula’s unwavering commitment to the principles of justice, independence, and the rule of law. May his spirit inspire a renewed dedication to these ideals among all who work towards democratic reform in Swaziland.
May Judge Josiah Matsebula rest in eternal peace.
Issued by: Lawyers for Democratic Reform in Swaziland (LAW-DERSWA)