Pretoria, 30 April 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced plans to establish a judicial commission of inquiry to investigate alleged interference in the investigation and prosecution of apartheid-era crimes referred by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).

The move follows long-standing allegations that efforts were made—particularly during previous administrations—to obstruct justice in cases handed over to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). The Presidency said the commission aims to uncover the truth and bring long-awaited closure to affected families.

The inquiry is part of a partial settlement in a court case brought by families of victims of apartheid-era crimes. While the parties agreed on the commission’s formation, they remain at odds over other aspects of the litigation, including whether certain state actions were unlawful and whether constitutional damages should be awarded.

“President Ramaphosa is resolute in his commitment to ensure that justice is not denied to the families who have waited decades for accountability,” the Presidency said in a statement. “The commission will have broad and comprehensive terms of reference, and will also address unresolved claims cited in the legal proceedings.”

The government is expected to request a stay of the ongoing legal application pending the commission’s findings.

An announcement detailing the commission’s leadership, timeline, and mandate will follow shortly.