President Cyril Ramaphosa has recently honored the late Advocate Dumalisile Philemon Pearce Nokwe with the prestigious title of Senior Counsel (Silk) for the Republic of South Africa. This posthumous conferral was bestowed on Adv Nokwe on the eve of his reburial in West Park Cemetery, Johannesburg, alongside his late wife, Mrs. Vuyiswa Malangabi-Nokwe.
Advocate Nokwe, affectionately known as “Duma,” lived a remarkable life dedicated to the fight against apartheid and the pursuit of justice. He passed away in Zambia in 1978 at the age of 50, after living in exile since 1963. His mortal remains were repatriated to South Africa in 2024, marking a poignant moment in honoring his legacy.
President Ramaphosa has declared a Special Provincial Official Funeral for Adv Nokwe, with plans to deliver a tribute at the reburial ceremony. The conferral of the Senior Counsel title on the late advocate is a significant recognition of his expertise and contribution to the legal profession.
Born in 1927, Adv Nokwe obtained a BSc degree from the University of Fort Hare before embarking on a teaching career in Krugersdorp. His activism led to imprisonment during the Defiance Campaign of 1952 and subsequent dismissal by the Transvaal Education Department. Despite facing adversity, he pursued a career in law, becoming the first black advocate admitted to the Johannesburg Society of Advocates.
Throughout his life, Adv Nokwe remained steadfast in his commitment to the liberation struggle, facing trials, arrests, and assault by the authorities. He served as Secretary-General of the African National Congress and campaigned against apartheid on global platforms, leaving an indelible mark on the fight for justice and equality.
The posthumous appointment of Adv Nokwe as Senior Counsel aligns with the provisions of the Legal Practice Act of 2014, reflecting his enduring impact on the legal profession. The application for this honor was made by the Legal Practice Council and the Duma Nokwe Group of Advocates, underscoring the respect and admiration for his legacy.
As we gather to pay tribute to Advocate Dumalisile Philemon Pearce Nokwe, we honor his courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to justice. His legacy serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations, reminding us of the enduring power of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
