South Africa Reopens Inquest into Steve Biko's Police Custody Death After 48 Years of Silence

South Africa to Reopen Steve Biko Inquest 48 Years After Death in Police Custody JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - The South African government has announced plans to reopen an inquest into the death of anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko, nearly 50 years after he died in police custody. Biko's death in 1977 sparked widespread outrage and became a symbol of resistance against the apartheid regime. Biko, the founder of the Black Consciousness Movement, was arrested in August 1977 for his activism and held without charge for nearly a month. He was beaten into a coma by police before being left unattended in a prison cell, where he died at the age of 30. The incident sparked international condemnation and drew attention to the brutal treatment of black South Africans under apartheid. The decision to reopen the inquest comes after years of advocacy from Biko's family and human rights groups. "This is a significant step towards justice for Steve Biko and his family," said Ntsikelelo Biko, Steve's son. "We hope that this process will bring closure and accountability for those responsible for his death." The inquest aims to determine whether the police actions contributed to Biko's death. "We want to establish the facts of what happened to Steve Biko," said Advocate Mbuyiseli Majikela, a lawyer representing the Biko family. "This is not just about finding out who was responsible for his death, but also about ensuring that those responsible are held accountable." The apartheid regime's brutal treatment of black South Africans has had lasting impacts on the country's social and cultural landscape. The legacy of apartheid continues to influence contemporary issues such as economic inequality, police brutality, and racial tensions. For many South Africans, Biko's death remains a painful reminder of the atrocities committed during apartheid. "Steve Biko was a hero who gave his life for our freedom," said Thembi Mtshali, a community leader in Johannesburg. "His legacy continues to inspire us today." The reopening of the inquest is seen as a significant development in South Africa's ongoing efforts to confront its past and promote accountability. The process is expected to take several months, with the court set to hear evidence from witnesses and experts. As the inquest unfolds, many are hoping that it will bring long-overdue justice for Steve Biko and his family. "This is a chance for South Africa to finally acknowledge the truth about what happened to Steve Biko," said Advocate Majikela. "We hope that this process will help to heal the wounds of the past and build a more just society for all." *Reporting by Theguardian.*