Massacre 20th anniversary exhibition

TWENTY years ago, 29 people were killed when Ciskei soldiers fired on protesters in Bhisho.

Now, the Amathole Museum is commemorating the September 7 1992 Bhisho massacre – which it describes as a turning point in democracy – with a temporary exhibition.

On Tuesday night, members of the museum, sponsors, supporters and survivors of the massacre gathered at the muse- um in King William’s Town.

On that fateful day, protesters marched to occupy Bhisho and force Ciskei leader Brigadier Oupa Gqozo’s resignation. One soldier was among the 29 killed.

Museum director Fred Kigozi said at the exhibition launch that the tragedy had marked a turning point for South Africa, and that the purpose of the exhibition was to highlight that transformation.

“When we reflect back on that day, it brings back terrible memories. However, it was a turning point for democracy in our country,” Kigozi said.

The exhibition, which is expected to run for three months, includes photographs and a video presentation of the massacre.

Survivors Canon Pat Ncaca and Doris Hlekani said they were grateful their lives had been spared and were honoured to have been part of the march. “I’m not sad at all. I am grateful to be alive,” Hlekani said.

“Remembering that day brings some joy to me knowing that if it was not for my blood, democracy would not have been where it is today. It was worth the sacrifice.”

Ncaca said: “To me, this [exhibition] is great . . . It is by the goodness of the Lord that we are able to stand here today and tell our stories to [later] generations.”