Veteran journalist Lukhanyo Calata, the son of Fort Calata, one of four anti-apartheid activists from Cradock, assassinated by the government in 1985, welcomed the establishment of a judicial commission of inquiry to investigate whether attempts were made to obstruct investigations or prosecution of apartheid-era crimes.

The announcement of the commission of inquiry was made on Wednesday by the office of President Cyril Ramaphosa.

This comes after Calata together with other families alongside the Foundation for Human Rights (FHR) brought a legal challenge before the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria for gross human rights violations under apartheid.

These cases, referred by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), have long been a source of frustration for victims, their families, and human rights advocates.

Speaking to IOL, Calata said as families, they were pleased that Ramaphosa finally announced the decision to establish a commission of inquiry.

"Now he needs to urgently announce the terms of reference, the judge to preside over it as well as the start date. As the families, we look forward to the hearings and finding out the truth around who in the ANC administrations interfered with the work of the NPA to prevent the prosecutions of our fathers’ killers," he said.

Calata said this was a step towards justice and closure.

"Their dark and dastardly deeds must be brought into light. This is yet another crucial step to help the long-suffering families on their journey towards truth, justice, and closure."

In their court application, they seek an order condemning the conduct of current government officials, including President Ramaphosa, Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, National Director of Public Prosecutions Shamila Batohi, and SAPS National Commissioner Fannie Masemola.

They alleged that these officials have unlawfully refrained from, or obstructed investigations and prosecutions of apartheid-era crimes.