# Former South African President Denies Impeding Apartheid Cases

> Former South African President Thabo Mbeki denies ordering prosecutors to stop apartheid-era cases.
- Title: Former South African President Denies Impeding Apartheid Cases
- Summary: Former South African President Thabo Mbeki denies ordering prosecutors to stop apartheid-era cases.
- Keywords: thabo mbeki, south africa, apartheid, truth and reconciliation commission, national prosecuting authority, johannesburg, cyril ramaphosa, news, local, Former, South, African
- Source: Seattletimes — https://seattletimes.com/nation-world/former-south-african-president-denies-impeding-investigation-and-prosecution-of-apartheid-era-cases
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: thabo mbeki, south africa, apartheid, truth and reconciliation commission, national prosecuting authority, johannesburg, cyril ramaphosa, news, local
## Mbeki denies ordering prosecutors
Former South African President Thabo Mbeki says he did not direct, authorize, or approve the suppression of investigations into apartheid-era crimes.

> I did not direct, authorize, or approve the suppression of the investigation or prosecution of crimes
## Mbeki's written statement
Mbeki says the National Prosecuting Authority must explain why it failed to pursue cases referred by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
## Families and foundation call for explanation
The Foundation for Human Rights and 25 families of victims and survivors called for an explanation and an apology after years of waiting.

> After so many years of waiting and obfuscation, the families really look forward to a candid explanation of why they have been denied justice
## Truth commission amnesty process
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission received about 7,000 amnesty applications, with 850 granted and 5,400 refused by November 2000.
## Mbeki's 2003 parliamentary address
Mbeki said prosecutors could enter into lawful arrangements with people willing to disclose information about past crimes.

> prosecutors, 'working with our intelligence agencies,' could enter into lawful arrangements with people willing to disclose information about past crimes
## Mbeki denies secret deals
Mbeki acknowledged meeting with former military and police officers but denied agreeing to protect them from prosecution.
## Inquiry continues
Mbeki's testimony continues Tuesday with three former Cabinet ministers due later this week.
## Key takeaway

Former South African President Thabo Mbeki says he did not direct prosecutors to halt investigations into apartheid-era crimes.