Enyobeni Tavern tragedy: SAHRC proposes a moratorium on new liquor licences in EC
The commission released an extensive report on its findings around the 2022 calamity that saw 21 patrons aged between 14 and 20 lose their lives while celebrating the completion of their exams.
The Enyobeni tavern in Scenery Park, East London where 21 people died during an event on 25 June 2022. Picture: Nhlanhla Mabaso/Eyewitness News
JOHANNESBURG - The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has called for a pause on the issuing of new liquor licences in the Eastern Cape.
following the Enyobeni Tavern tragedy.
The commission released an extensive report on its findings around the 2022 calamity that saw 21 patrons aged between 14 and 20 lose their lives while celebrating the completion of their exams.
This subsequently saw the double arrest of the owners of the tavern Vuyokazi and Siyakhangela Ndevu who were fined R5,000 each or alternatively 100 days imprisonment.
The 86-page report by the SAHRC found that the Eastern Cape Liquor Board deliberately neglected to protect vulnerable members of society against the illicit trade of alcohol and its associated harms.
ALSO READ: Enyobeni tavern tragedy: SAPS, Health Dept failed to uphold dignity of victims up - SAHRC
It says a moratorium on the issuing of new liquor licences would be in the best interest of the Eastern Cape public, noting the provincial liquor board's clear inability to prioritise and speed up the designation of its inspectors as peace officers under Section 334 of the Criminal Procedure Act.
This, the report reveals, undermines the provincial liquor board's ability to effectively enforce liquor regulations, thereby perpetuating a regulatory environment susceptible to exploitation and non-compliance.
The SAHRC's proposal is among an array of other recommendations, including improved and adequate response to reports of underage drinking by police, increased oversight and monitoring of zoning and building regulations by the Buffalo City Metro Municipality.
Ultimately, the SAHRC found that there were systemic deficiencies across multiple sectors, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to protect vulnerable populations and uphold human rights.