Forensic pathologist critiques post-mortem findings

DESPITE being an internationally acclaimed statesman, Inkosi Albert Luthuli was treated like a commoner in his death, with his post-mortem being conducted hurriedly by a doctor who was inexperienced in conducting a forensic examination and who produced a substandard death report.

- BONGANI HANS

This was revealed by senior KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health’s Dr Sibusiso Johannes Nsele, who reviewed the 1967 post-mortem report, which was conducted by Dr Jakobus Johannes van Zyle.

Nsele, who introduced himself as a “very senior” forensic pathologist in the province with 18 years in the medical health sector, said the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) instructed him on December 15, 2020, to help with the evaluation of Luthuli’s post-mortem report compiled in 1967.

Luthuli died at Stander Provincial Hospital a few hours after being allegedly hit by a goods steam train on the morning of July 21, 1967, at Mvoti River in Groutville, Stanger.

The outcome of Nsele’s review highlighted a lack of professionalism in the work done by three doctors who dealt with Luthuli before and after his death.