The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) is set to release an investigation report on Thursday regarding the tragic deaths of 21 partygoers at the Enyobeni Tavern in the Eastern Cape in 2022.
The commission’s team has delved into the systemic challenges and human rights concerns that may have contributed to this devastating incident.
Dr Eileen Carter, a representative of the SAHRC, emphasized that the inquiry aims to hold all relevant stakeholders accountable.
The commission intends to bring together all parties involved to discuss the failures that led to this tragedy. Dr. Carter expressed concern that the “best interest of the child” principle was not upheld, whether due to bylaws or the liquor board’s negligence.
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In addition to the SAHRC investigation, an inquest into the cause of the teenagers’ deaths is scheduled to take place in the Mdantsane Magistrate’s Court in May. This legal process will further shed light on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Previously, the tavern’s owner, Vuyokazi Ndevu, and her husband, Siyakhangela Ndevu, who served as the operational manager, were convicted in the East London Regional Court.
They were found liable for the sale of alcohol to a 17-year-old attendee who tragically lost their life. The couple received fines of R5,000 each, with the alternative of 100 days’ imprisonment.
Additionally, a cashier who was on duty during the night of the deaths has already paid an admission of guilt fine.
The release of the SAHRC’s investigation report is a significant step towards understanding the factors that contributed to this tragic event. It is hoped that the findings will lead to necessary changes and improvements to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
