South Africa’s apartheid-era crimes inquiry is delayed over legal objections
Summary
An inquiry into allegations that South African governments interfered with investigations into apartheid-era crimes was delayed. The delay happened due to objections about a lawyer involved in the inquiry. The inquiry follows pressure from victims’ families who want prosecutions for crimes committed during apartheid.Key Facts
- The inquiry was delayed on its first day because of concerns about one of the lawyers, Ishmael Semenya.
- President Cyril Ramaphosa called for this inquiry in April 2023.
- The inquiry focuses on whether Black-led governments have interfered in apartheid-era crime investigations.
- South Africa ended its apartheid system in 1994.
- The objection was due to Semenya's past involvement in a policy on apartheid crimes deemed unconstitutional in 2008.
- Judge Sisi Khampepe set the next hearing for the inquiry on November 26.
- The Truth and Reconciliation Commission from 1996 recommended prosecutions but many cases remain unprosecuted.
- Over 20 families are suing President Ramaphosa and the government for damages and an independent investigation into possible interference.
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