Commissions without consequences: What did TRC, Zondo, Marikana attain?

SOUTH Africa's history is marked by numerous commissions of inquiry that have focused on investigating corruption, human rights abuses, and systemic failures.

- THABO MAKWAKWA

While some have made significant contributions to understanding these issues, others have struggled to deliver justice, raising concerns about their effectiveness, costs, and long-term impact.

Recently, allegations involving Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, Deputy Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya, and officials linked to a criminal syndicate have once again thrust the spotlight on the role and effectiveness of these bodies following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement that a commission of inquiry would be established to investigate the allegations.

While commissions have played a crucial role in exposing wrongdoing, critics argue their impact often falls short of delivering tangible justice.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), chaired by Archbishop Desmond Tutu and established in 1995, was instrumental in addressing apartheid atrocities, fostering national healing through truth-telling, and encouraging dialogue among victims and perpetrators.

However, many critics and some political parties argue that the commission failed in its primary goals of reconciliation and prosecution.

Decades later, the Zondo Commission, set up in 2018 to investigate allegations of state capture involving former President Jacob Zuma and the Gupta family, uncovered widespread corruption at the highest levels of government.

Its findings have led to numerous referrals for prosecution and prompted policy reforms. Yet, despite the hefty price tag - nearly R1 billion, many critics argue that it has yet to produce the expected results.