We have noted the statement by the Democratic Alliance’s Helen Lamoela that the Public Protector has confirmed that it would investigate the DA’s complaint that the department was “failing to deliver on its mandate to promote the realisation and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities”. We wish to respond as follows:
As a department, we will co-operate with the Public Protector and ensure that she completes her investigations without any delay or hindrance. With regard to Ms Lamoela’s vitriolic attacks on the Minister and the aspersions she casts on her work, we have chosen not to dignify her statements with a public response.
Our response to the specific allegations made by Ms Lamoela will be submitted directly to the Public Protector at an appropriate time. In the meantime, we urge Ms Lamoela to withhold her over-zealousness and hasty judgments, and allow the Public Protector to conclude its investigations.
We are confident that the report of the Public Protector will vindicate us and serve as an education tool for Ms Lamoela, who clearly does not understand the mandate and performance of the department.
Enquiries:
Cornelius Tanana Monama
Department of Women, Children and People with Disabilities
Tel: 012 359 0224
Cell: 082 578 4063
