SIU's actions are bringing it into disrepute, not the DA's statements

Yesterday Mr Booi Ndala on behalf of the SIU issued a statement questioning the integrity of my sources who have raised serious concerns regarding the SIU and its processes.

The DA regards the SIU as a vital institution in the fight against corruption, and we would never raise issues which could damage it without being confident of the truth of our information. Our concerns are genuine and we are confident that the information is reliable. Contrary to Mr Ndala's assumption, I have taken whatever steps I can to verify it. There is nothing speculative about it. We are hardly going to attempt to verify it with the very people who are allegedly involved in irregularities.

It is for this reason that I have referred the matter to the Public Protector and requested that she investigate the SIU and the specific issues I have raised in myletter to her. She has confirmed receipt of the complaint, and that she will revert to me early in the new year after they have assessed it.

If the SIU has nothing to hide, they will welcome such an investigation, which will then clarify what information is correct and what is not. We believe that it is in the best interests of South Africa that this be done, and soon.

We cannot afford ongoing questions about the integrity of such a vital unit. 

Statement issued by Debbie Schafer MP, DA Shadow Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, December 21 2012

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