Legal fraternity pays tribute to late NPA deputy Rodney de Kock
His sudden death after only being diagnosed in December ends a career of over 30 years, mostly spent in public prosecution work.
The late Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Rodney de Kock. Picture: Supplied/NPA
CAPE TOWN - The legal fraternity on Tuesday paid tribute to deputy director of public prosecutions, Rodney de Kock, who died of brain cancer in a Johannesburg hospital on Monday night.
He's being remembered as a dedicated public servant and a lynchpin in rebuilding the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) after state capture.
Most recently, De Kock was also pivotal in efforts to have South Africa removed from the Financial Action Task Force's greylist.
His sudden death after only being diagnosed in December ends a career of over 30 years, mostly spent in public prosecution work.
The director of public prosecutions in the Western Cape for 17 years before heading to the national office in 2020, De Kock has left a long legacy of legal work.
As Shamila Batohi's deputy, he led several of the NPA's priority work areas and regularly reported to Parliament on progress made in bringing Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) cases to justice.
Parliament's justice committee chairperson, Xola Nqola, described him as a driven activist for justice.
"Advocate De Kock we regard as an outstanding public servant who has dedicated his life to serving the people of South Africa."
Fellow deputy director at the NPA, advocate Anton du Plessis, said that De Kock's legacy should make the NPA even more determined than ever to finish his work.
"He was one of those guys with absolute integrity, fighting every single day, keeping a positive spirit despite the ongoing attacks, the risks, so, it’s a big knock to us but we have to pick up the pieces."
Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said De Kock would be remembered for his tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of equality and justice in South Africa.