South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has established a commission of inquiry into alleged interference in prosecution of apartheid-era crimes, a long-standing issue that has delayed justice for victims and their families.
The commission, chaired by retired Constitutional Court judge Sisi Khampepe, with assistance from retired Northern Cape judge president Frans Diale Kgomo and lawyer Andrea Gabriel, will examine whether officials intentionally obstructed investigations into cases identified by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).
The TRC, established in the 1990s to address atrocities committed under apartheid, recommended criminal prosecutions for those who had not been granted amnesty.
However, many cases remained unresolved, with victims’ families accusing authorities of deliberate delays and political interference.
“For many years, there have been allegations of interference in these cases. This alleged interference is seen as the cause of an unacceptable delay in the investigation and prosecution of brutal crimes committed under apartheid,” Ramaphosa said on Friday.
He said the inquiry would bring closure and guarantee justice for all affected families.
“A commission of inquiry with broad and comprehensive terms of reference is an opportunity to establish the truth and provide guidance on any further action that needs to be taken.”
The commission will assess whether officials within the South African Police Service or National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) colluded in blocking investigations and whether further prosecutions or financial reparations are warranted.
Covering the period from 2003 to the present, the inquiry will review cases brought by victims’ families and legal representatives.
The commission is expected to complete its work within six months, submitting a final report within 60 days of completion.
While the government and victims’ families agreed on the commission’s formation, outstanding disputes over constitutional damages and legal accountability remain.
Ramaphosa acknowledged families may continue legal action outside the commission’s scope but urged patience for its findings.
The NPA has reopened and prioritized cases in recent years, with dedicated resources to address unresolved matters.
The commission’s findings could pave the way for future legal action, marking a decisive effort to confront South Africa’s painful history and provide closure for victims.
JN/APA