State Capture: DA files founding affidavit to oppose Zuma-Van Rooyen interdict 

18 October 2016

The Democratic Alliance, as an intervening party, yesterday filed its founding affidavit in the matter between Minister Des Van Rooyen and the Public Protector, to be heard by the North Gauteng High Court on 01 November.

As the complainant in the State Capture probe, the DA plainly has a direct and substantial interest in whether and when the ‘Final Report’ into State Capture is released.

The purpose of the DA’s intervention, in this matter of significant public importance, which has damaged South Africa, is to ensure that President Jacob Zuma and Minister Van Rooyen do not abuse judicial processes to shield themselves from possible adverse findings of the Final Report.

In our opposition to the interdict, we argue, inter alia, that the President and Minister’s interdict amounts to interference with the functioning of an organ of the state – the Public Protector – and is inconsistent with the doctrine of the separation of powers.  Furthermore, that there is no merit to the President’s complaint that he has not had an opportunity to respond to the Public Protector’s questions. The President was made aware of the allegations levelled against on 22 March 2016.

President Zuma cannot be allowed to place himself above the law, therefore the release of the Final Report is a leap towards ensuring his faces the full might of the law and is held accountable.

We are prepared to challenge this matter until justice prevails and President Zuma and his circle are brought to book for their involvement in this sordid web of lies, corruption and deceit.

Issued by Mabine Seabe, Spokesperson to the DA Leader, 18 October 2016