Ramaphosa Orders Probe of Apartheid-Era Prosecution Delays

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has agreed to establish a commission of inquiry to investigate allegations that previous ANC governments interfered with the investigation and prosecution of apartheid-era crimes, in response to a lawsuit by families of victims and survivors. The Foundation for Human Rights backs the legal action, which claims high-level political interference blocked justice in cases referred by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), notably including the Cradock Four killings. The move is the first significant official acknowledgment of families’ grievances but is criticized for the commission’s limited mandate, which does not allow for awarding constitutional damages or determining rights. Although the government had resisted mediation, it is now engaging with some of the families’ demands, though there is still dissatisfaction regarding reparations and comprehensive justice. Allegations of secret post-apartheid deals to shield perpetrators remain a central concern fueling calls for transparency. The head and timeline of the inquiry have not yet been announced, and there is ongoing debate about whether it will provide closure and accountability.