South Africa TRC cases inquiry

The Khampepe Commission is investigating alleged delays and obstruction regarding South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) cases.

Former Police Minister Fikile Mbalula testified that he had no authority to direct or provide resources to TRC-related investigations, stating, “As Minister of Police, I was never involved in TRC cases.” He maintained that his role was limited to policy rather than operational policing and that decisions regarding the postponement of investigative work were outside his remit.

Former Justice Minister Ronald Lamola testified that his tenure between 2019 and 2024 saw an increase in active investigations, rising from 53 cases in April 2021 to 115 by March 2022. Lamola noted he authorized the reopening of inquests into the killings of anti-apartheid activists and worked to increase capacity within the National Prosecuting Authority. He clarified that the power to establish a Commission of Inquiry into political interference rests with the President, not the Justice Minister.