The Helen Suzman Foundation (HSF) welcomes the 30 October 2025 ruling of the KwaZulu-Natal High Court in Pietermaritzburg, which found that Chief Albert Luthuli was murdered by operatives of the Apartheid Security Branch in 1967.
The original inquest had ruled that Chief Luthuli died in a train accident. His family, however, maintained for nearly six decades that he was killed and fought for the truth to be uncovered.
Chief Luthuli, who led the African National Congress (ANC) from 1957 to 1967, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1961 for his steadfast commitment to non-violent resistance and the struggle for freedom.
Helen Suzman and Chief Luthuli shared a deep respect for one another. Luthuli once described Helen as “a bright star in a dark chamber.” Despite his banning order, Helen visited him in Groutville, Zululand, to seek his counsel on the formation of the Progressive Party, and the two remained in correspondence. She later attended the unveiling of his tombstone in July 1972.
The Court also recommended that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) investigate the kidnapping or enforced disappearance of witnesses linked to the case.
HSF remains committed to justice for victims and families of victims of Apartheid-era crimes that have gone unprosecuted. As amicus curiae in Calata and Others v Government of the Republic of South Africa and Others (5245/2025), HSF has submitted that the right to truth is a constitutional imperative, and the heightened obligation of the state to investigate and prosecute ongoing crimes such as enforced disappearances.
Following the Calata case, the government established the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Stopped TRC Investigations and/or Prosecutions. HSF made a submission to the Inquiry on 10 October 2025 and encourages members of the public with relevant information to do the same via the Commission’s website here.
