The DA is deeply saddened by the passing of Judge Leonora van den Heever, South Africa’s first female judge and the first woman to serve on the Supreme Court of Appeal.
Appointed in 1969, Van den Heever broke historic barriers in the Northern Cape Division before rising to the Appellate Division in 1991, where she served until 1996. She was also the first female appeal judge for Botswana, Swaziland and Lesotho.
Not only did she achieve great milestones, but she was also admired for her sharp legal mind and deep sense of justice. She was known for her commitment to the rights of women and children.
Beyond the bench, she made significant contributions to arts and culture, served on several boards, and published children’s books and short stories. Her achievements earned her multiple honours, including the Women’s Bureau Achievement Award and an honorary LLD from Stellenbosch University.
Judge Van den Heever’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations.