Former head of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), Advocate Andrea Johnson, has defended her decision to authorise an investigation into senior South African Police Service (SAPS) officials, telling the Madlanga Commission that she relied on information presented by investigators.
The investigation included allegations against Crime Intelligence head Dumisani Khumalo, who is accused of fraud and corruption relating to the alleged irregular appointment of Brigadier Dineo Mokwele to a senior executive position. Johnson also conceded that IDAC investigators could have been conducting unauthorised investigations.
Speaking before the commission, Johnson said she had trusted the investigators’ assessment of the matter.
“I had no reason to doubt the briefing that was given to me by the investigator. I didn’t ask for a document. I was satisfied with the briefing that I was given. As an investigation team, they identified that this is the investigation, this is what they require for the investigation, and this is what it is that must be subpoenaed,” she said.
Her testimony comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa accepted Johnson’s request to vacate her position with immediate effect. Johnson had asked for her resignation to take effect immediately and requested that her three-month notice period be waived.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the decision followed a recommendation by Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mamoloko Kubayi, with the support of National Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Andy Mothibi.
“The President’s agreement follows a recommendation by the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mamoloko Kubayi, and supported by the NDPP, Advocate Andy Mothibi, that Advocate Johnson’s request be granted,” Magwenya said.
Reaction to Johnson’s departure has been divided. Forum for South Africa criticised President Ramaphosa for allowing her to resign rather than ensuring she was held accountable, while Cosatu welcomed the decision. Cosatu parliamentary coordinator Matthew Parks said Johnson’s position had become untenable following allegations raised before the Madlanga Commission regarding failures in leadership at the directorate.
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Photo: X/ @NPA_Prosecutes
