Public Protector requires more information before making final decision on Guptagate

The Public Protector, Advocate Thuli Madonsela, requires further information concerning my request for an investigation into the alleged unauthorised landing of a Jet Airways Airbus A330-200 at AFB Waterkloof before making a final decision about whether to investigate what has become known as "Guptagate". 

On 8 May 2013, I wrote to the Public Protector requesting an investigation into "Guptagate". Responding to my request, in a letter dated 14 May 2013, the Public Protector informed me that she would request a copy of the investigation report before making a final decision on "Guptagate".

Yesterday, I met Advocate Madonsela, at her request, to discuss the investigation into "Guptagate". A copy of the final investigation report had clearly been provided to the Public Protector who has studied the report. At the meeting, Advocate Madonsela, reiterated the points raised in her letter, dated 30 May 2013, and informed me specifically that:

• her office required further information from me about the members of the executive authority that we feel should be investigated including their names and the allegations against them; and
• her office would be conducting interviews with three persons who were involved in "Guptagate".

I have therefore agreed, following the meeting, to provide the Public Protector with a detailed complaint, including the names of members of the executive authority, together with specific allegations against them, that we feel should be investigated, in respect of "Guptagate".

From the start, we have been concerned that the scope of the investigation, which was conducted by the task team of director-generals, would not include the possible role of President Jacob Zuma and members of his Cabinet. We are not going to sit back and allow ministers to get off the hook by making a few officials take the heat.

Statement issued by David Maynier MP, DA Shadow Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, June 4 2013

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