The Rivonia Trial Tribunal Play Project

October 2023 marks the 60th anniversary of the start of the Rivonia Trial in South Africa, one of the most important political trials of the twentieth century and a turning point in South Africa’s struggle against apartheid. Often referred to as "the trial that changed South Africa,” ten leading opponents of apartheid went on trial for their lives on charges of sabotage. The ‘accused’ used the courts as a site of struggle. They argued that the law was drawn up without the consent of the majority and enforced to ensure the perpetuation of an unjust system. Therefore, struggle was be waged to establish a new system, including a legal system that would embody the values of a non-racial constitution that protected human rights.

For more information about the play, please visit:

https://www.matthewhahn.org.uk/about-4