Sharpeville Massacre Victims Sue South African Government
Survivors and relatives of victims of the Sharpeville massacre are suing the government for compensation, challenging the era's compensation laws.
Survivors and relatives of victims of the 1960 Sharpeville massacre have launched a compensation lawsuit against the South African government, defying apartheid-era laws.
The 1960 Peaceful Protest
On 21 March 1960, residents of the township of Sharpeville gathered to protest pass laws that required Black people, Indians and so-called coloureds to carry pass documents.
The Bloody Sharpeville Massacre
At least 91 people were killed and 238 injured after police opened fire without warning on thousands of people gathered outside a police station about 40 miles south of Johannesburg.
New Legal Battle Against the Government
Three test plaintiffs, including Abraham Mofokeng who was shot in the back during the incident, applied to court on Thursday seeking compensation, with the outcome potentially paving the way for dozens more to sue.
Challenge to Apartheid-Era Law
The legal team argues that a law passed in 1961 by the white minority regime, which shielded the government from liability for actions during the suppression of civil unrest, is unconstitutional.
Compensation Demands and Expectations
The plaintiffs in the lawsuit hope to receive about 500,000 rand per person, which is approximately £23,000 in compensation.
Search for Historical Justice
This lawsuit is part of a broader wave of litigation demanding justice amid frustrations over post-apartheid economic inequalities and unresolved historical injustices.