MEDIA STATEMENT BY JUSTICE AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT MINISTER JEFF RADEBE
I have noted with concern rumours and speculation in the media that the Public Protector is about to be arrested on allegations of fraud and/or corruption.
As a cabinet member responsible for the administration of justice, I find it most unfortunate and unsettling that the integrity of Advocate Thuli Madonsela and by extension the office which she occupies has been called into question in the manner we have seen in the media in the past few days.
The office of the Public Protector, an institution established in terms of our constitution, plays a very important role in strengthening our democratic dispensation. This office, together with other democracy supporting institutions, must always be supported and protected by all of us and not be attacked or undermined through the employment of tactics of whatever manner.
Relationship between Advocate Madonsela and the Department of Justice
Advocate Madonsela became Commissioner at the South African Law reform Commission (SALRC) in January 2007 following her appointed by the President in terms of section 3 of the South African Law Reform Commission Act 19 of 1973. At that time her remuneration packaged had to be negotiated. A proposal to this effect was referred to the National Treasury for consideration. The Department was requested by the National Treasury to look into a possible conflict of interest as she was operating a business entity which was rendering a service to the Department of Justice.