Three years after the tragic deaths of 21 young people at Enyobeni Tavern in Scenery Park, grieving families say they are still waiting for answers and accountability as the inquest into the incident drags on.
The victims were remembered during a somber candlelight memorial service at St. Peter’s Methodist Church on Wednesday, marking the anniversary of the June 26, 2022 tragedy. The event, organized solely by the bereaved parents under the group Scenar 21, was held near the site of the incident as a poignant reminder of the lives lost.
Frustration Over Delayed Justice
Ntombizonke Mgangala, a parent who lost a child in the tragedy, expressed frustration over the slow progress of the inquest, which has yet to determine whether anyone should be held criminally liable.
“We were hoping that by now, someone identified through the inquest would be facing trial, but we are still stuck in the process,” Mgangala said. “We are calling upon the Lord to help ensure justice is served.”
The inquest, being heard at the East London Magistrate’s Court in Dantani, has left families in limbo, with no clear timeline for closure.
A Community Left to Mourn Alone
Mgangala lamented the lack of government support, noting that despite invitations, few officials attended the memorial. “It shows clearly that no one, especially on the government side, is supporting us,” she said.
Parents have relied on each other for strength, using a WhatsApp group to share their grief and organize support. “It’s so difficult, but our unity keeps us going,” Mgangala added.
A Call for Wider Awareness
The memorial was held in Scenery Park to emphasize that the tragedy affected not just the local community but also families across Buffalo City. Mgangala said the group plans to hold future commemorations in other areas to raise awareness.
As the legal process continues, the families remain determined to seek justice for their children, whose lives were cut short in one of South Africa’s deadliest tavern disasters.
The inquest resumes Monday at the East London Magistrate’s Court.
