A significant ruling has emerged from South Africa, where a court has determined that Nobel laureate Albert Luthuli’s death in 1967 was the direct result of an “assault” by apartheid police. This verdict overturns the initial 1967 inquest which had concluded that Luthuli, the first African to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, had died accidentally after being hit by a freight train.
The family and supporters of Luthuli had long contested the original findings, suspecting foul play. Responding to these concerns, the South African government initiated a review of the case earlier this year. The court’s judgment, delivered recently, confirms that the anti-apartheid icon suffered a fractured skull and cerebral haemorrhage due to an assault, bringing a measure of justice to his family.
Luthuli, who led the banned African National Congress (ANC) at the time of his passing, was recognized with the Nobel Peace Prize in 1960 for his pivotal role in the fight against apartheid. The ANC later led the charge against white-minority rule, eventually coming to power in 1994 after the nation’s first democratic elections.
Following the new evidence and appeals, South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority reopened investigations into Luthuli’s death in April. The court heard that the original 1967 inquest’s findings were not supported by the evidence presented. Judge Nompumelelo Radebe stated, “It is found that the deceased died as a result of a fractured skull, cerebral haemorrhage and concussion of the brain associated with an assault.” The judge further attributed Luthuli’s death to the actions of members of the South African police’s security special branch, in collaboration with employees of the South African Railway Company.
Seven men were identified as potentially involved or complicit in the murder, though their current whereabouts are unknown. The ruling offers hope for accountability, with the possibility of criminal charges if they are located. Luthuli’s family has expressed their welcome and gratitude for the judgment, seeing it as a crucial step towards achieving justice. The ANC has also lauded the decision, describing it as a correction of historical inaccuracies and a tribute to Luthuli’s memory and the victims of apartheid brutality.
This case is part of a broader effort by South African authorities to provide justice and closure for victims of apartheid-era crimes. Similar efforts include the recent reopening of inquests into the deaths of other prominent anti-apartheid figures, underscoring the ongoing quest for truth and reconciliation in the nation’s history.