Key Points
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The NPA has reopened the inquest into Chief Luthuli’s death.
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New evidence suggests an apartheid-era cover-up involving officials.
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Expert testimonies may challenge the 1967 verdict on Luthuli’s death.
The death of Chief Albert Luthuli, a key figure in South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle, has been surrounded by controversy for decades.
In 1967, authorities ruled that Luthuli died in a train accident. However, recent evidence now casts doubt on this conclusion.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in KwaZulu-Natal has reopened the inquest into his death, hoping to reveal the truth.
The new information presented in the Pietermaritzburg High Court suggests that apartheid officials colluded to cover up the real cause of his death.
NPA’s revelations and reopening of the inquest
Advocate Ncedile Dunywa, representing the NPA’s Truth and Reconciliation Unit (TRC), shared disturbing details about the involvement of senior apartheid officials.
According to Dunywa, the security police, district surgeons, pathologists, prosecutors, and magistrates were all complicit in concealing the truth. The NPA intends to present expert testimony that could overturn the original verdict.
Dr. Sibusiso Ntsele, the chief pathologist for KwaZulu-Natal, will argue that Luthuli’s injuries do not align with being hit by a moving train. He will point to signs of assault and self-defense, which contradict the initial ruling.
What we can expect from the trial
The reopening of the inquest is a major step in the search for justice. Luthuli’s family, the ANC, and the international community have long called for clarity.
The NPA, in partnership with the Hawks and TRC units, will present crucial evidence to expose the cover-up. Expert witnesses such as steam train operator Lesley Labuschagne will provide further insights into the case.
Luthuli’s family members will also testify about the harassment he faced from state security forces. ANC officials, including Jeff Radebe, will offer context on Luthuli’s leadership and the state’s persecution of Black South Africans under apartheid.
