Former police minister Bheki Cele expressed deep distress during his testimony at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) inquiry, responding to allegations that he withheld information about the 1987 disappearance of anti-apartheid activist Musawakhe 'Sbho' Phewa.The family of Phewa had submitted an affidavit alleging Cele knew more about the case and failed to act.

Cele denied writing a biography about Phewa, stating he learned of the disappearance while in detention and claimed it was the first time he heard such allegations.He offered to engage with the family but admitted uncertainty about receiving their 2008 appeal for assistance.

The inquiry focuses on political interference and suppression of TRC cases, with Cele acknowledging his refusal to fund legal costs contributed to stalled prosecutions.Over 300 apartheid-era cases were referred to prosecutors, though only a fraction have progressed.Cele's testimony highlights tensions between accountability and systemic challenges in addressing historical injustices.