PISTORIUS
IT is not every day that most of us get to sit in at a murder trial.
Much as we might desist the idea, the Oscar Pistorius Trial has captured collective imagination, stretched understanding and presented a platform for mass debate and dialogue on how justice prevails, rights and responsibilities of each party, reasonable cause and intent, and the workings of human mind and consciousness.
When you watch murder or crime and subsequent trials in movies, you’re rooting for the ‘good guys’, and you often have more information as the story progresses.
Also, the triumph of good in a screenplay or storyline has a massive impact on how we feel about the human condition.
Seeing it at play in a real world where you’re not just getting media snippets (although a necessary part of the ongoing narrative) is a powerful way of re-igniting hope in the justice system for a yet-to-heal nation, and inspiring consciousness on right versus wrong.
The extended discussion on common humanity, compassion, grief, and loss continue to flow. It’s both sobering and encouraging.
This trial is really about reflecting different aspects of the national psyche and seeing them play out in various ways.
While the case is rooted in tragedy, there is possibility for lessons to be learnt and healing.
Kampa Senkwe
