The inquest is looking to identifying anyone that can be held liable for the deaths of political activists Fort Calata, Matthew Goniwe, Sicelo Mhlauli and Sparrow Mkhonto, known as the Cradock Four. The four anti-apartheid activists were abducted and murdered by apartheid security police, outside Gqeberha in 1985.

Several persons of interests are expected to take the stand when the inquest resumes. These will include former members of the South African Police Security Branch and South African National Defense Force, Eugene De Kock, Joffel Van Der Westhuizen, Izak Krappies Engelbrecht, Craig Williamson, Barend Du Plessis and Gerrit Erasmus.

During the last sitting, Presiding Judge Thami Beshe, led an inspection visiting the sights where the bodies of the deceased were dumped, after they were abducted, tortured and had their vehicle set alight four decades ago.

LIVE | The re-opened inquest into the deaths of the Cradock Four is under way at the High Court in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. pic.twitter.com/zZPX9yJXwE

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Widows, children and friends of the slain anti-apartheid activists all took turns on the stand. Son of Fort Calata, Lukhanyo Calata, shared how disappointed his family is, about how the apartheid government and post-apartheid government handled the death of his father.

“The ANC government has failed us. I don’t know how I can make the judge understand, we just want justice. The same people that were crying at my fathers funeral, who are enjoying the fruits of freedom today, are the same people that did nothing to help us find the truth. They forgot about seeking justice for their friend and comrade who gave away his life for the freedom they enjoy today.”

Close friend to Fort Calata and fellow activist, Professor Derrick Swartz, shared Lukhanyo’s sentiments.

“To be honest I have not forgiven those who did this to my friend. How could I possibly forgive? No one has given me the chance to. Immediately after fighting for freedom, we started with nation building, so we never got a chance to process everything and deal with our demons.”

The legal team representing the families, is expected to bring forward its witnesses later this week, including Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, General Bantu Holomisa. The second sitting for the inquest has been set for two weeks.

VIDEO | Cradock Four| Families show united front