The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has confirmed with deep sorrow the passing of Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions (DNDPP), Advocate Rodney de Kock, who died on 20 January 2025.
De Kock, who had been battling brain cancer since his diagnosis in December 2024, passed away after a courageous fight.
De Kock was appointed DNDPP on 1 June 2020, joining the NPA’s Executive Committee (ExCo) with a mission to help rebuild the organization following years of state capture.
His leadership was pivotal in re-establishing the integrity and efficiency of the NPA. Prior to this role, he served as the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for the Western Cape, making history as the first Black person to be appointed to this esteemed position in South Africa.
Before entering the public sector, De Kock had a successful law practice in Cape Town, specializing in human rights, civil, and criminal litigation.
His dedication to justice and defending the principles of democracy defined his career. As detailed by his family, De Kock's work in these areas was marked by a deep commitment to fairness, equality, and the rule of law.
In his capacity as DNDPP, De Kock was responsible for overseeing the National Prosecutions Service, the core function of the NPA.
He worked closely with other Directors of Public Prosecutions (DPPs) across the country, supervising prosecution efforts in various divisions.
Known for his steadfast commitment to justice, De Kock was especially admired for his work leading the law enforcement agencies’ collective effort to address South Africa’s grey listing by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
His final months were dedicated to ensuring the country would successfully exit the FATF grey list, a critical task that he took on with determination and focus.
NPA Spokesperson, Adv. Mthunzi Mhaga, expressed the profound sense of loss within the organization, saying, “The passing of Rodney de Kock is an immense loss to the NPA and the criminal justice system. He was not only a brilliant lawyer but a passionate advocate for justice, fairness, and the rule of law. His leadership and unwavering commitment to the values that underpin our democracy will be sorely missed.”
The National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) also shared a heartfelt tribute, stating, “This is a huge loss for the NPA and the country.
De Kock was a solid lawyer, a gentleman, and a true warrior for justice. He will be sorely missed." His colleagues within the NPA, as well as those across the criminal justice system, are mourning the loss of a leader whose passion for justice and the rule of law was unwavering.
De Kock, affectionately known as "DK," will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his personal integrity and dedication to the NPA’s mission.
He was a source of strength and inspiration to those around him, and his passing leaves a significant void.
The NPA extends its deepest condolences to the De Kock family, his friends, and his colleagues in the NPA during this difficult time. Further details regarding De Kock’s memorial service and funeral arrangements will be shared by his family spokesperson in due course.