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Still waiting for justice, decades after apartheid ended

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September 18, 2025

After apartheid, South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission earned global praise. Yet, despite hundreds of cases being flagged for further action, only a few have reached the courtroom. Is political interference preventing justice from being served?

Edgar Mushwana’s cousin, ANC activist Ignatius Mthebule, vanished in 1987 after being betrayed by a government spy. His family still is still seeking answers. Despite South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission referring 300 cases for prosecution, only 14 have so far reached court. Now, a new inquiry — prompted by a lawsuit — will investigate whether officials blocked justice. Families hope that decades after the end of apartheid, this commission will finally reveal the truth.

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