‘Following up after Enyobeni tavern report could test powers of SAHRC’
The Human rights commission launched an investigation into the Enyobeni Tavern disaster.
The Enyobeni tavern in Scenery Park, East London where 21 people died during an event on 25 June 2022. Picture: Nhlanhla Mabaso/Eyewitness News
John Maytham speaks with Estelle Ellis, Senior journalist at The Daily Maverick
Listen to the interview in the audio below.
In 2022, 21 youths, aged between 13 and 21, died at Enyobeni Tavern in East London.
Two years later there is no definitive cause of death for those in the tavern.
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Since then, the SA Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) conducted a probe into this tragedy.
Through this investigation they found that liquor regulations have not been adequately enforced by the Eastern Cape Liquor Board (ECLB), and the police failed to address complaints.
“In my mind this is what the human rights commission should be doing.”
- Estelle Ellis, Senior journalist at The Daily Maverick
The SAHRC has recommended an immediate moratorium on issuing new on-site liquor licenses until the ECLB can adequately monitor compliance.
Ellis says there are very few liquor inspectors, yet 2000 new licenses had been issued in the past year.
“It will be interesting to see if the SAHRC will follow up with action if things are not being done… it may be a test for the powers of the commission.”
- Estelle Ellis, Senior journalist at The Daily Maverick
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.