By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider
Diplomatic Insider managed to catch up with a representative from the Foundation For Human Rights, Sesetu Holomisa, to share some insights into the case of Caiphus Nyoka’s murder and the crucial steps towards mending the wounds of the apartheid era.
Q: How much of a pivotal step is this towards true reconciliation for past atrocities that South Africa has faced due to Apartheid? Does this sentencing symbolise a form of justice for these crimes committed by the apartheid era police force?
A: The foundation for Human Rights welcomes the sentencing of Johan Marais, as it brings a sense of closure to the Nyoka family and the loved ones of Caiphus Nyoka after their 37-year pursuit of justice. This judgement serves as a powerful reminder that it is never too late to hold perpetrators of apartheid-era human rights violations accountable-especially those who were denied amnesty or never applied for it at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). This sentencing is a step in the right direction. It affirms the principle that those who were murdered, forcibly disappeared, or seriously harmed in the struggle for freedom and democracy must not be forgotten, and that those responsible must be held to account.
Q: Do you believe that the sentencing that Marais received is a sufficient enough punishment for his crimes?
A: Whether 15 years is a sufficient punishment for Marais depends on who you ask. We believe that only the family can truly speak to what justice looks like in this case and whether or not this sentence is enough. That being said, the sentencing of Marais marks the beginning of justice that has been delayed for far too long, not being denied. We can only hope that more of the truth emerges during the upcoming trial of Marais’ co-accused-Leon Van den Berg, Abram Hercules Engelbrecht, and Pieter Egbert Stander, scheduled to resume at the Benoni Magistrates Court from 8-19 September 2025. We also echo Judge Mokhine Masopa’s call for other former apartheid operatives who committed crimes to come forward and reveal their truth about their involvement.