28 November 2007
We note the outcome of the State vs Masetlha matter and are currently
studying the judgment. We wish to reiterate that the Inspector-General has a
Constitutional mandate to oversee the intelligence services to ensure that
members act within the parameters of the law. Provisions set out in the
Intelligence Services Oversight Act 40 of 1994 are clear in this regard and all
members of the services are bound to adhere and abide by these provisions.
In finding Masetlha not guilty the court gave him the benefit of the doubt
and based its findings on system failure and poor communication between the
parties. The court further alluded to the fact that Masetlha had already lost
his job and that it "would be unfair and unreasonable to subject such person to
further penalty as prescribed by the Oversight Act."
Further queries may be directed to:
Mr Imtiaz Fazel
Cell: 082 551 7192
Issued by: Government Communications (GCIS) for the Office of the Inspector
General
28 November 2007
Source: SAPA
