Call for Accountability at TRC Cases Inquiry
Lukanyo Calata, a prominent journalist and son of anti-apartheid activist Fort Calata, has formally urged the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Cases Inquiry in South Africa to issue subpoenas for former Presidents Thabo Mbeki and Jacob Zuma. The demand stems from their alleged failures in investigating and prosecuting cases arising from the TRC's recommendations. Calata's testimony before the inquiry on Friday, February 14, 2026, highlighted the long-standing quest for justice by victims' families.
Background to the Inquiry and Unresolved Cases
The TRC Cases Inquiry was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa on May 29, 2025, with the mandate to determine whether attempts were made to prevent the investigation and prosecution of apartheid-era crimes. Chaired by retired Constitutional Court Judge Sisi Khampepe, the inquiry began its public hearings in November 2025. Hundreds of cases involving gross human rights violations, where perpetrators were either denied amnesty or did not apply for it, were referred by the TRC to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action. However, many of these cases have remained unresolved for decades, leading to accusations of political interference at the highest levels of government that stalled prosecutions.
Lukanyo Calata's personal connection to these unresolved matters is profound; his father, Fort Calata, was one of the Cradock Four—anti-apartheid activists murdered in 1985. Despite six former police officers being denied amnesty by the TRC for their involvement, they were never prosecuted. The families of victims, including Calata's, have pursued legal action against the government for its failure to bring alleged perpetrators to justice.
Former Presidents' Resistance and Allegations
Both Thabo Mbeki and Jacob Zuma have actively sought to challenge the inquiry's proceedings. They filed applications for Justice Sisi Khampepe to recuse herself as chairperson, alleging bias due to her past roles, including involvement in the TRC Amnesty Committee and as Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions. However, their recusal application was dismissed in January 2026, with Khampepe citing 'unreasonable delays and lack of proper explanations.' Despite this, the former presidents are reportedly seeking judicial review of this decision, a move that victims' families view as an attempt to obstruct the inquiry's work.
Calata emphasized the perceived 'double-speak' of former heads of state, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, who he claims express understanding for victims' families while allegedly undermining the inquiry. He questioned why, as leaders, Mbeki did not ensure the prompt investigation and prosecution of TRC cases after receiving the reports.
The Ongoing Quest for Justice
The call for subpoenas underscores the persistent demand for accountability regarding apartheid-era atrocities. The inquiry represents a critical opportunity to uncover the truth behind the delays in prosecution and to provide long-awaited closure for victims' families. The lack of cooperation from entities like the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), who have reportedly failed to submit required documents, further complicates the inquiry's efforts. The commission is now considering issuing subpoenas to compel compliance from these bodies as well.
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