The first week of May 2025 in South Africa was marked by significant developments, ranging from a landmark decision addressing historical injustices and crucial economic adjustments to tragic losses within the police service and devastating road accidents.
Addressing the Past and Present Justice Concerns:
A pivotal moment arrived mid-week when President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry to investigate allegations that previous governments intentionally obstructed the investigation and prosecution of apartheid-era crimes. This long-awaited move, stemming from decades of campaigning by survivors and victims’ families and forming part of a settlement in a recent court case, aims to address unresolved killings and disappearances recommended for investigation by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).
In the ongoing case that has captured national attention, the mother of Joshlin Smith, Kelly Smith, along with two co-accused, were convicted of kidnapping and selling the six-year-old girl. While the convictions mark a significant step in the legal process, the search for Joshlin continues, with activists stressing that justice remains incomplete until she is found.
Separately, the reburial ceremony for anti-apartheid activists Benjamin Malasella Moloise and Abraham Zakhele Mngomezulu took place, bringing closure to their families decades after their deaths.
Tragedy Strikes Law Enforcement and Road Users:
The nation mourned the loss of several police officers this week. The bodies of three missing Free State police constables were tragically recovered from the Hennops River in Gauteng after their vehicle was found. Investigations are ongoing, and memorial services are planned. Further tragedies included the fatal shooting of an off-duty police officer in Langa, Cape Town, and a Kraaifontein SAPS clerk shot dead in Athlone. These incidents underscore the dangers faced by law enforcement personnel.
Road safety was brought into sharp focus following a horrific head-on collision in the Eastern Cape late Saturday night, claiming the lives of 15 people after a minibus taxi and a bakkie crashed on the R63. The motorsport community also mourned the death of racing driver Pieter Joubert in a crash during the Simola Hillclimb event in Knysna.
Economic Adjustments and Government Activity:
Following political deadlock and legal challenges over a proposed VAT hike, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced on Wednesday that the 2025 Budget Review would be re-tabled on May 21st. The controversial VAT increase has been reversed for now. In the interim, government spending continues under provisions of the Public Finance Management Act, based on the previous year’s budget allocations. This development allows stakeholders more time to deliberate on achieving fiscal sustainability. On a municipal level, the City of Johannesburg announced plans to increase the prepaid electricity surcharge.
Workers’ Day was observed on May 1st, with trade unions like COSATU highlighting the need to protect democracy from corruption and address workers’ challenges.
Military and Diplomatic Developments:
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) confirmed the start of its phased withdrawal from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This follows a SADC decision and reported progress towards peace agreements in the region. The withdrawal process, involving road, air, and sea transport via Rwanda and Tanzania, is expected to continue throughout May.
On the diplomatic front, South Africa announced the closure of its embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria, effective June 30th, citing fiscal considerations. Diplomatic relations will be handled through the embassy in Athens, Greece.
Social and Community Issues:
Relief efforts were underway in KwaZulu-Natal, with Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane directing the immediate relocation of Umlazi households affected by recent mudslides. Condolences were also extended to families impacted by a fatal water tanker crash in Edendale. Concerns were raised about conditions in correctional facilities following a death at the Goodwood centre. In Gauteng, police rescued 44 undocumented immigrants found locked in a house in Sandton.
This week highlighted the complex tapestry of South African life – a nation actively confronting its painful past, mourning present-day tragedies, navigating challenging economic realities, and engaging on the regional and international stage.
