ANC statement on the Appointment of Willem Heath to head SIU

The African National Congress welcomes the appointment of Judge Willem Heath, by President Jacob Zuma, as the new Head of the Special Investigations Unit (SIU).  This is a demonstration of both the commitment and the will to fight corruption in all its forms.  This appointment will also assist in separating the functions of the Special Investigations Unit, from the work of Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU). We believe that with this appointment and the separation of the SIU from AFU will assist in reducing the backlogs that were experienced in the SIU.

One of the priorities of the ANC led government has been to strengthen government's capacity to deal decisively with crime and corruption.  This will certainly energise what has been a committed team within the law enforcement cluster of government which has been able to reduce incidences of crime and corruption in the country.

We welcome an opportunity that will focus on crime syndicates and all forms of corruption both within and outside of government.  South Africans from all walks of life including the media, must do everything in their might to complement these efforts by exposing and blowing whistle against crime and corruption.  We believe that with the appointment of Judge Willem Heath and through his impeccable experience, the SIU will rise to the challenge of intolerance against crime and corruption.

Once again we want to say to the President of the Republic of South Africa, the Honourable Jacob Zuma ‘well done'.

Statement issued by Jackson Mthembu, African National Congress, November 29 2011

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