Government detaches itself from CIA allegations

09 Sep 2014

Government notes media coverage on the reported claims made by Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Kebby Maphatsoe that Advocate Thuli Madonsela is allegedly an agent of the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The comments were reportedly made in his personal capacity and do not represent the views and position of the South African government.

Chairperson of the Inter Ministerial Committee on Information and Publicity, Minister Jeff Radebe, said, "Government distances itself from such accusations as they were never discussed at any official government meeting nor do they reflect the views and thinking of government. Comments or allegations against any country or persons including those responsible for guarding and upholding constitutional values should be raised and addressed at appropriate platforms. South Africa enjoys a cordial diplomatic relationship with the United States of America. "

Government reiterates its trust in the country's Chapter Nine institutions. These institutions, and in particular the Public Protector and Auditor-General were established as part and parcel of moving towards a solid democratic state. The Chapter Nine institutions share two roles: that of monitoring the accountability of government, and that of contributing to the transformation of South Africa into a society in which social justice prevails. The State Institutions are independent of government and are subject only to the Constitution and the law.

"Government hails the role that is played by the intuitions to ensure its accountability and the strengthening of South Africa's democracy. We have created these high institutions to ensure that South Africa remains a constitutional state and government remains steadfast to protecting their role in taking the country forward," said Radebe.

Statement issued by Phumla Williams, Government Communications, September 9 2014

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