Johannesburg, South Africa — On July 15, 2026, former South African police minister Fikile Mbalula emphasized the necessity of prosecuting apartheid-era offenders, irrespective of their current status. Addressing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Cases Inquiry, Mbalula’s statement underscored the need for accountability and justice for the victims of apartheid-era crimes.
The TRC Cases Inquiry is examining allegations of delayed investigations into apartheid — era crimes by the South African Police Service (SAPS). Mbalula, who served as police minister from 2017 to 2018, testified that he was unaware of any police investigations into cases referred for criminal investigation by the TRC during his tenure. His testimony has reignited discussions on the handling of apartheid-era crimes in South Africa.
Established in 1995, the TRC offered amnesty to perpetrators who confessed to their crimes and provided full disclosure.
However, many cases were referred for criminal investigation, and the TRC Cases Inquiry is probing the handling of these cases.
The families of apartheid victims have long argued that the post — 1994 government failed to adequately pursue these cases. During his testimony, Mbalula expressed regret over his inability to assist the TRC Cases Inquiry with information related to its terms of reference. He also denied any role in delaying investigations or prosecutions of TRC cases during his time as deputy minister and later minister of police.
He emphasized that he did not possess the legal authority or executive powers to direct investigations or prosecutions, as those responsibilities rested with the National Prosecuting Authority and police investigators.
The TRC Cases Inquiry, chaired by retired Constitutional Court Judge Sisi Khampepe, is an independent inquiry tasked with determining whether attempts were made to prevent the investigation and prosecution of apartheid — era crimes.
As the inquiry continues, the nation awaits further developments and clarity on the government’s intentions to address the legacy of apartheid-era crimes.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: enca
Source: Vusi.Bafetane
