16 March 2007
The Public Protector Advocate Lawrence Mushwana, the head of the National
Prosecuting Authority Advocate Vusi Pikoli, and the Auditor-General Terence
Nombembe met on Thursday to discuss a way forward regarding recent allegations
that have been made concerning the arms procurement process.
The meeting was held to confirm the variety of requests for investigation
that have been sent separately to the institutions and to assess if there were
overlapping matters that could be addressed jointly.
However, the three principals came to the conclusion that none of the
requests required their joint consideration. They agreed that each institution
would deal with issues that have been raised based on their own mandates. This
means that the three agencies will not reconstitute a joint investigation team
as was structured in the 2001 investigation.
The agencies will respond directly to the individuals who made enquiries and
requests for investigation.
The Public Protector's mandate is to investigate any conduct in state
affairs or in the public administration that is alleged or suspected to be
improper or results in any impropriety or prejudice.
The National Prosecuting Authority has the power to institute and conduct
criminal proceedings on behalf of the State, and carry out any necessary
functions incidental to instituting and conducting such criminal proceedings
(this includes investigation).
The Auditor-General audits and reports on the accounts, financial statements
and financial management of all institutions funded from the National Revenue
Fund including government departments and administration in all three spheres.
This includes the review of government internal control systems and procedures
for adequacy and compliance.
The institutions, in line with their respective mandates, have reaffirmed
and expressed their willingness to co-operate with any investigative agency
that might request their assistance.
For more information, contact:
Charles Phahlane
Spokesperson for the Public Protector
Tel: (012) 366 7006
Cell: 082 856 8188
Issued by: Office of the Public Protector, National Prosecuting Authority
and Auditor-General
16 March 2007
Source: SAPA
