Cradock Four Inquest: Calata's Son's Testimony Under Scrutiny
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Cradock Four Inquest Hears Further Testimony, Questions Raised
GQEBERHA - The inquest into the tragic deaths of the Cradock Four – Fort Calata, Matthew Goniwe, Sicelo Mhlauli, and Sparrow Mkhonto – continues to unfold in the Gqeberha High Court. Lukhanyo Calata, son of the late Fort Calata, recently concluded his testimony, facing intense cross-examination regarding the relevance of his input.
The reopened inquest aims to finally establish the truth behind the 1985 murders, a dark chapter in South Africa's apartheid history. The Cradock Four, prominent anti-apartheid activists, were allegedly lured into a deadly trap by apartheid-era police officers.
Advocate Jaap Cilliers, representing several former police officers, questioned Lukhanyo Calata's testimony, pointing out that he was only three years old at the time of the killings. Cilliers challenged the basis of his knowledge and the validity of his statements.
Despite acknowledging his lack of direct personal recollection, Lukhanyo Calata maintained that the documents and records he presented were crucial to uncovering the full picture of what happened. He believes that these sources offer vital clues and insights into the events leading up to the murders.
Following Lukhanyo's testimony, his mother, Nomonde Calata, has now taken the stand to provide further evidence. The inquest is expected to continue for several weeks as the court seeks to determine who was responsible for the abduction and murder of these anti-apartheid heroes.
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has met with the families of the Cradock Four, reaffirming the government's commitment to bringing closure to this long-standing case. The quest for justice continues, decades after the brutal crime.