Former Justice Minister Ronald Lamola told the Khampepe Commission of Inquiry on 11 August 2026 that his 2019–2024 tenure marked the most successful period for addressing Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) cases since the advent of democracy. Lamola, who served as Minister of Justice and Correctional Services for five years, used his testimony to reject claims of political interference in the handling of apartheid-era crimes.
Resources And Statistical Gains
During his time in office, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) saw the allocation of 13 additional prosecutors and 34 Hawks investigators dedicated specifically to TRC-related matters. Statistics presented show that the number of these cold cases receiving active attention climbed from 53 in April 2021 to 115 by March 2022.
During my tenure, The TRC Cases matters were the most successful period in the post democratic SA.
The establishment of a dedicated TRC component within the NPA in September 2021 was a key feature of his administrative strategy. However, critics continue to debate whether this shift was a result of his direct initiative or the product of intense external legal pressure following the 2019 Rodrigues judgment.
Claims Of Executive Independence
Addressing the central focus of the Khampepe Inquiry—which is investigating allegations that political meddling obstructed historical justice—Lamola maintained that he operated without outside influence. He testified that he was never contacted by political figures to stall or influence the progress of specific investigations.
I never even received a phone call [pressuring me to slow down or stop work].
While Lamola defended the increase in case volumes, legal commentators have frequently noted the distinction between cases under active investigation and the limited number of successful prosecutions secured to date. The commission continues to examine why progress on these sensitive matters remained stagnant for decades despite the initial recommendations of the TRC.
The commission is expected to continue hearing testimonies regarding executive oversight of the NPA as it compiles its final report. CapeFlats.co.za will monitor further updates from the ongoing proceedings.