Closure needed over Marikana, says police Minister

13 August 2015

CAPE TOWN – The Minister of Police has noted the reports of court action by 37 families of the affected mineworkers of the Marikana tragedy that took place on August 16, 2012.

Though the Minister has not yet seen the court papers, he believes that this is one of the actions that bring closure to this sad chapter in the history of our country.

“We are on record as saying that what happened in Marikana shouldn’t have happened. President Zuma, in recognition of the gravity of the situation, appointed the Farlam Commission which has made its recommendations that we are already in the process of implementing.

“We need further engagements to bring about closure to the hurt, humiliation and sorrow of our people over this matter. We have certainly learnt many lessons out of this tragedy. We welcome the areas that have been flagged by the commission which are issues of institutional reform and transformation”, Minister Nhleko said.

The Minister would welcome a process whereby different departments and other stakeholders were to work together to make good on any decision by the courts.

“We have a duty to collaborate and assist in the reconstruction of communities where the Marikana workers come from. This tragedy compels us to give real meaning and expression to the concept of working together to do more,” he said.

Statement issued by Musa Zondi, Ministry of Police, August 13 2015