President Jacob Zuma on the civil claims against government arising from the Marikana incident

29 September 2015

Government is still considering the recommendations by the Marikana Commission of Inquiry.

It has in the meanwhile instituted steps under Judge Cornelis Johannes Classen, assisted by two advocates, to investigate matters relating to the position of the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service. Both processes are continuing, and are unaffected by what I have to announce today.

Government wishes to move forward to address the consequences of the incidents at Marikana. These incidents include not only the deaths and injuries of striking miners, but the deaths of other miners, security officials and police officers. What happened at Marikana hurt the whole nation and the time has come for healing to begin.

With that in mind, Government is exploring initiating an alternative dispute resolution process to expedite the processing of all claims arising from the tragic incidents of August 2012. A judge, assisted by experts, will be asked to lead this process in order to reinforce its independence.

Government will engage with the legal representatives of claimants, and encourage them to use this process. To the extent that some do not lend their co-operation, or it is not possible to resolve claims through mediation, Government will seek to do so through the court process.

But it is hoped that the aim of achieving swift compensation for bona fide claims will be shared by all who genuinely seek to assist those who have suffered. 

Statement issued by The Presidency, 29 September 2015