South Africa Reopens Inquest into Notorious Apartheid-Era Murders
In a significant development, a high court inquest has been reopened in South Africa into the murders of four prominent anti-apartheid activists, known as the Cradock Four. The inquest, which commenced on June 2, 2025, at the Gqeberha High Court, marks a crucial step towards justice for the families of Matthew Goniwe, Fort Calata, Sicelo Mhlauli, and Sparrow Mkonto, who were abducted, tortured, and killed by apartheid security forces on June 27, 1985.
The case has been a longstanding symbol of the country’s troubled past, with two previous inquests in 1987 and 1993 failing to hold anyone accountable for the murders. Despite the 1993 inquest attributing responsibility to security forces, no prosecutions were ever pursued. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s denial of amnesty applications from six officers connected to the case in 1999 also did not lead to any convictions, as all the officers have since passed away.
The National Prosecuting Authority’s recommendation to reopen the inquest, citing new evidence and inconsistencies in previous investigations, has brought new hope to the families of the victims. Justice Minister Ronald Lamola has stated that the renewed proceedings are "in the interest of justice" and aim to provide closure to the victims’ families. The timing of the inquest’s commencement, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the murders, underscores the significance of this long-delayed pursuit of justice.
The families of the Cradock Four have maintained their decades-long pursuit of justice, with 25 families, including those of the murdered activists, filing a lawsuit against the South African government in January 2025. The lawsuit seeks an inquiry into the lack of prosecutions and demands R167 million for further investigations and the establishment of memorials. The advanced age of remaining persons of interest, ranging from 75 to 88 years old, has added urgency to the case, highlighting the critical window for obtaining testimony and evidence.
As proceedings continue at the Gqeberha High Court, the case stands as a test of South Africa’s commitment to ensuring accountability for crimes committed during the apartheid era. The reopened inquest represents a significant step towards addressing past injustices and honoring the memory of those who sacrificed their lives in the fight against apartheid. The world watches as South Africa takes this crucial step towards justice, reconciliation, and healing.
