We received the news of the passing of Rob with deep sorrow and regret. On behalf of both our teams at the Competition Commission and Competition Tribunal, we convey our deepest sympathies to the family of Rob Legh, our colleagues at Bowmans, and the entire community of Competition Law practitioners.

Rob was a towering figure in South African competition law, being one of the earliest practitioners in this field. It is hard to imagine a Bowmans without him, just like it is to imagine a high stakes competition case in South Africa without him. He will be remembered for his meticulous and passionate representation of his clients, who included blue-chip South African firms as well as international companies.

In litigation, he was a worthy but principled opponent. He also tactically and professionally guided his clients through some of the high profile enforcement cases, as well as ground-breaking merger remedies using all available legal instruments. He had an impeccable quality of knowing when to fight and when to negotiate. Even when on the weak side of an argument, Rob enjoyed the intellectual rigour and drama of our craft. His commitment to service his client was unmatched. You would find him at the coal face of client’s premises during a ‘Dawn Raid’, at the Commission’s boardrooms, and at the Tribunal or court hearings. He was a man of quiet and strategic action.

Rob played a big role in the 2019 amendments to the Competition Act, where he was a tough but objective negotiator, and very thoughtful in approach to the engagements. More than all of this, Rob was an absolute gentleman. He will surely be remembered as a calm, sharp and principled legal mind.

His passing has certainly left a void in the competition law fraternity as a whole.

To Rob’s family, although it is difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow. We wish you strength, grace, and peace during this difficult time.

May His Soul Rest in Peace.