After 33 years in the relentless pursuit of truth and accountability, the family of anti-apartheid activist Nokuthula Simelane will finally see justice done.  On 8 February 2016, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) announced that it would charge four former apartheid security policemen with her kidnapping and murder. This is a significant and historic development, which has been welcomed by the Simelane family.

Although the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) recommended that more than 300 cases should be prosecuted, this is the only one that has so far been pursued by the NPA as a result of the persistence of Simelane's family. It is the first prosecution of apartheid-era perpetrators since the 2007 plea bargain agreement was struck with former police minister, Adriaan Vlok and four senior police officers.

For a full update on the matter, the Southern Africa Litigation Centre and Simelane family, hosted by Webber Wentzel will hold a media briefing as follows:

Date:              Thursday, 11 February 2016
Venue:           Webber Wentzel Offices, 90 Rivonia Road, Sandton
Time:               13h00 Sharp

The press conference will be addressed by:

·         Thembi Nkadimeng, Sister of Nokuthula and Executive Mayor of Polokwane
·         Adv. Muzi Sikhakhane SC – leader of the legal team, representing the Simelane family
·         Adv. Dumisa Ntsebeza SC – former TRC Commissioner and Head of Investigations
·         Yasmin Sooka, former TRC Commissioner & Director of Foundation for Human Rights
·         Janet Love, Director of Legal Resources Centre & Commissioner of the SA Human Rights Commission
·         Marje Jobson, Director of Khulumani Support Group

Webber Wentzel is at 90 Rivonia Road, on the corner of Catherine Rd, diagonally opposite the American Consulate. There is free underground parking in the building accessible off both Rivonia and Katherine Roads.  Take the Visitors lift to Reception where you will be directed to the ground floor venue.

Please RSVP to Nadine on (011) 894 2767 or nadine@tscommunications.co.za by end of business on Wednesday, 10 February 2016.

Issued by: The Southern Africa Litigation Centre