/ 19 January 2013

Lawyers representing Marikana miners run low on funds

Dali Mpofu
Dali Mpofu

Muzi Msimang, who represented the workers alongside advocate Dali Mpofu, told the Citizen newspaper they had received no promise of funding as the commission was scheduled to continue on Monday.

"We have not received anything from the justice department, but we will keep trying… We also have received nothing from the commission or legal aid board," he was quoted as saying.

Msimang said a "good Samaritan" had funded them until last month and they would likely have to request further assistance from this person.

He told the Citizen they would not abandon the miners.

Funded by the state
"Our clients are poor and are the direct victims of the tragedy.

"If we don't show up at all you must know that these people will not be represented, but as indicated we will give notice when we are unable to carry on," he said.

Legal representatives of police and other government departments which were part of the commission were reportedly being funded by the state.

The Marikana Commission of Inquiry was initially meant to wrap up in February but an extension was granted and the justice department said proceedings should be concluded in May.

The commission – headed by retired judge Ian Farlam – is investigating the August 16 shooting at the Lonmin Platinum mine where 34 miners were killed. – Sapa