Story perspectives

New Inquest Reopens Biko's Death Nearly 50 Years Later

9/11/2025

Summary

Story summary

South African prosecutors will reopen the inquest into anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko's death, nearly 50 years after he died in police custody.
Biko, who founded the Black Consciousness Movement, died in 1977 from police beatings, causing global outrage.
The new inquest starts on September 12, the anniversary of his death.
A 1977 inquest had accepted police claims that Biko's injuries were accidental.
Former police officers admitted to assaulting Biko during 1997 Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings.

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Story summary

South African prosecutors will reopen the inquest into anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko's death, nearly 50 years after he died in police custody.
Biko, who founded the Black Consciousness Movement, died in 1977 from police beatings, causing global outrage.
The new inquest starts on September 12, the anniversary of his death.
A 1977 inquest had accepted police claims that Biko's injuries were accidental.
Former police officers admitted to assaulting Biko during 1997 Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings.