It is to ascertain what led to the killing of 34 striking miners by the police last August.
A judicial commission of inquiry into the killing of 34 striking miners last August by South Africa’s police yesterday October 1 began sitting at the Rustenburg Civic Centre, 100 km north-west of Johannesburg near the scene of the massacre. The commission was set up by South Africa’s President, Jacob Zuma, to probe the killings at the Lonmin-run Marikana platinum mine, the most deadly police action since the end of Apartheid in 1994.
The Mail and Guardian newspaper said the hearings began with an inspection of the site of the massacre. The commission will also visit other sites that may be referred to in evidence, mine shafts and the settlements around Marikana. It is rumoured that the panel will today, October 2, examine all available video evidence documenting events on the day of the shooting. Formal sittings begin on Wednesday October 3.
The BBC said the investigation will determine the roles played by the police, the management of the platinum mine, Lonmin, the unions and government. It will also look into the deaths of 10 other people in the months leading up to the day of bloodshed on August 16. Also known as the Farlam Commission, it consists of a three-member panel led by retired Supreme Court of Appeal Judge, Ian Farlam. It is expected to complete its analysis within four months and must submit its final report within a month of finishing its investigation.
A total of 46 people died in the violent protests that took place during weeks of unrest at the platinum mine. However, only 44 deaths are being investigated as two deaths fall outside the scope of the inquiry. The investigation will also examine the conduct of any individuals or groupings in promoting conflict and confrontation. There are plans to set up giant screens in Marikana, close to the scene of the shootings, to allow relatives and friends of the late miners to follow proceedings closely.
Observers have questioned whether things have moved fast enough to ensure a thorough investigation. The investigation only began yesterday - five weeks after President Jacob Zuma announced its creation. The commission is required to submit monthly progress reports to the President.
