Uncovering the Truth Behind Chris Hani’s Assassination

Key Takeaways:

• South Africa should learn from its history and recognize the importance of accountability in dealing with State Capture crimes.
• The assassination of anti-apartheid activist Chris Hani in 1993 was a pivotal event that had far-reaching consequences for the country’s transition to democracy.
• Author and retired high court judge Chris Nicholson’s book, "Who Really Killed Chris Hani?", explores the circumstances surrounding Hani’s murder and the potential involvement of multiple individuals and organizations.
• The book highlights the need for transparency and accountability in South Africa, particularly in the face of organized crime and corruption.
• Nicholson’s work emphasizes the importance of holding those in power accountable for their actions and ensuring that the truth is revealed, even if it is uncomfortable or inconvenient.

Introduction to the Topic
The recent publication of Chris Nicholson’s book, "Who Really Killed Chris Hani?", has brought attention to the ongoing issue of accountability in South Africa, particularly in relation to State Capture crimes. Nicholson, a retired high court judge, believes that the country should learn from its history and recognize the importance of holding those in power accountable for their actions. In a phone interview with Daily Maverick, Nicholson emphasized the need for accountability, stating that "it would be so nice if the bad guys can go to jail occasionally." This sentiment is particularly relevant in the context of Hani’s assassination, which was a pivotal event in South Africa’s transition to democracy.

The Assassination of Chris Hani
Chris Hani was a prominent anti-apartheid activist who was assassinated on April 10, 1993, in Boksburg. The murder was an attempt to derail South Africa’s transition from racist apartheid rule to democracy. Two men, Janusz Waluś and Clive Derby-Lewis, were convicted in connection with the killing. However, Nicholson’s book suggests that there may have been a larger conspiracy involved, with multiple individuals and organizations playing a role in Hani’s death. Nicholson’s research, which spanned over 15 years, has led him to believe that Hani was the victim of a plot involving several individuals other than Waluś and Derby-Lewis.

The Book: "Who Really Killed Chris Hani?"
Nicholson’s book is a detailed and meticulously researched account of the events surrounding Hani’s assassination. The book explores the potential involvement of various individuals and organizations, including the South African Institute for Maritime Research (SAIMR), which was allegedly tied to British intelligence and Waluś. Nicholson’s work also examines the broader political patterns and assassinations that occurred during this time period, including the killings of Patrice Lumumba, Dag Hammarskjöld, Olof Palme, and Anton Lubowski. The book is dense with details, with Nicholson presenting granular information and sources to allow readers to come to their own conclusions.

Accountability and Corruption
Nicholson’s book highlights the need for accountability and transparency in South Africa, particularly in the face of organized crime and corruption. He believes that the country’s democracy is not working if more than 60% of its residents go to sleep hungry each night. Nicholson also questions whether the ultra-rich should be taxed more, and whether the current system is allowing for the suppression of truth and the protection of those in power. The book underscores the global and saturating nature of organized crime, with Nicholson emphasizing that drug traffickers, greedy politicians, and seemingly legitimate businesses are all part of the problem.

Past Meets Present
The issues explored in Nicholson’s book are particularly relevant in the context of South Africa’s current law enforcement scandal. The scandal, which erupted in July, has revealed allegations of corruption and organized crime within the police and private security sector. Nicholson notes that the scandal "in a way… shows just how deeply corrupted our society is." He also asks the question: "If we have our intelligence agencies corrupted, who is policing the police?" The scandal has highlighted the need for accountability and transparency in South Africa, and Nicholson’s book provides a timely and important contribution to this conversation.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Chris Nicholson’s book, "Who Really Killed Chris Hani?", is a timely and important contribution to the conversation about accountability and corruption in South Africa. The book highlights the need for transparency and accountability, particularly in the face of organized crime and corruption. Nicholson’s research and writing provide a detailed and meticulously researched account of the events surrounding Hani’s assassination, and his work emphasizes the importance of holding those in power accountable for their actions. As South Africa continues to grapple with the legacy of apartheid and the ongoing issue of State Capture, Nicholson’s book serves as a reminder of the importance of learning from history and promoting accountability and transparency in all aspects of society.