Families of Apartheid Victims Demand Justice in South Africa's High Court

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The families of the Cradock Four, a group of anti-apartheid activists killed in 1985, are suing the South African government for failing to prosecute their alleged murderers. This legal action, initiated by Lukhanyo Calata and 24 other families, aims to compel an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the killings and to seek constitutional damages totaling 167 million rand.

The Cradock Four, which included Fort Calata and Matthew Goniwe, were brutally murdered by state security forces at a roadblock. In 1999, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission denied amnesty to six security officers involved, yet no one has been prosecuted since. The families argue that the government's inaction has caused lasting pain and suffering.

Calata described the profound impact of losing his father and expressed feelings of betrayal by the government. The justice ministry is currently reviewing the case and has reopened an inquest into the murders amid allegations of previous governmental interference in investigations.

Nombuyiselo Mhlauli, another widow of one of the slain activists, voiced her disappointment over the lack of prosecutions, questioning the government’s delayed response. As the families seek justice, the case highlights ongoing struggles for accountability in South Africa’s post-apartheid era.

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