CRL Rights Commission kicks off hearings on unrest in Durban

Investigative hearings into the recent unrest in KwaZulu-Natal by the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission) started in Durban on Wednesday.

On Tuesday the commission said last month’s unprecedented conflict and the resultant deaths required it to facilitate mediation and conflict resolution among the affected communities.

Most of KwaZulu-Natal and areas of Gauteng were thrown into chaos after days of violence and looting in which more than 320 people lost their lives, with Phoenix making headlines for the high level of violence and deaths.

Commission communications manager Mpiyakhe Mkholo told TimesLIVE on Wednesday that some of the hearings would be conducted virtually, with individuals appearing only in camera, and others in person.

“Some family members of the victims came forward stating they did not know who killed their loved ones. Therefore they felt their lives could also be in danger during the proceedings,” he said.

Among those who will provide evidence are representatives of the black and Indian communities in Phoenix, women-led organisations and religious leaders.

The hearings on Wednesday and Thursday, led by commission chairperson Prof David Mosoma, would first focus on events in Phoenix before shifting to other areas affected by the unrest, Mkholo said.

“We wanted to avoid a ‘helicopter approach’, whereby we try to cover every area in one week. This is impossible and we would end up with communities dissatisfied with how the hearings will have been conducted.

“We decided to start with Phoenix and assess how many stakeholders, affected families and organisations will be available for the commission. We want to respect the individuals and the challenges they face, and give everybody a chance.”

Communities from Bhambayi, Zwelisha, KwaMashu and Amaoti would also be heard.

TimesLIVE