Khampepe Commission continues probe into TRC case delays

Inquiry examines alleged efforts to obstruct prosecution of apartheid-era perpetrators in Johannesburg hearings.

The commission of inquiry into Truth and Reconciliation Commission cases continued hearings in Newtown, Johannesburg, on 22 and 23 April 2026, investigating alleged efforts to stall the investigation and prosecution of apartheid-era perpetrators¹²³.

The inquiry, led by former Constitutional Court Justice Sisi Khampepe, is examining obstacles that have prevented the prosecution of individuals implicated in apartheid-era crimes who did not apply for or receive amnesty from the TRC¹²³.

Previous testimony at the commission has addressed systemic challenges in handling TRC-related cases. National Director of Public Prosecutions Shamila Batohi told the inquiry her office was stretched thin managing both TRC cases and matters arising from the Zondo Commission into state capture². The inquiry has also heard evidence concerning gaps in TRC records, including testimony related to the Ahmed Timol case².

Former National Prosecuting Authority official Nomgcobo Jiba appeared before the commission to address questions about the missing docket in the Cradock Four case, denying involvement in its disappearance².

The TRC operated between 1996 and 1998 as part of South Africa's transition from apartheid, granting amnesty to perpetrators who made full disclosure of politically motivated crimes. Cases involving perpetrators who did not seek or receive amnesty were referred for prosecution, but many investigations have faced delays or remain incomplete decades later.