Issued by: Truth and Reconciliation Commission
In a public meeting held in Mbekweni, Paarl, recently, TRC Committee member Ms. Pumla Gobodo-Madikezela found that a number of residents were concerned that if they gave statements to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, this would provoke threats from people who do not want the details of past conflict to be exposed. Ms. Gobodo- Madikezela wants to assure the Paarl community that the work of the Truth Commission is not about witch-hunting and pointing a finger at those who are seen as having inflamed the conflict.
Rather, the objective of the Commission is to help resolve conflicts of the past, and to find explanation for them. However, we wish to inform every one that the Truth Commission has a witness protection programme. If anyone feels that their safety will be compromised as a result of making a statement to the Commission, she/he has a right to apply for protection. We would hope that the people of Paarl will join together in reflecting on the struggle in Paarl, and in sharing their experiences of suffering on all sides of the conflict. More statement taking has been scheduled for Saturday 31st August. This will take place at the Huguenot Community Hall and the Mbekweni Community Hall from 11a.m. until 5p.m. at both places.
26 August 1996