New Delhi, Oct. 21 -- "I did not direct, authorize, or approve the suppression of the investigation or prosecution of crimes," Mbeki told a judicial inquiry in Johannesburg examining allegations that political interference in democratic South Africa prevented investigations and prosecutions of crimes committed under white minority rule.

Mbeki, who succeeded Nelson Mandela in 1999 and served until 2008, said in a written statement that the National Prosecuting Authority must explain why it failed to pursue cases referred by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

His testimony comes amid renewed efforts to resolve apartheid-era crimes left unprosecuted for decades. Ahead of his appearance, the Foundation for Human Rights and 25 families...