Former Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) head, Advocate Andrea Johnson, called for stronger oversight and tougher integrity measures within the anti-corruption unit, saying additional safeguards are needed to strengthen accountability and prevent future misconduct.
Johnson made the remarks as she concluded six days of testimony before the Madlanga Commission, where the directorate’s conduct came under intense scrutiny.
She acknowledged that, despite IDAC’s relatively short existence, its work had exposed weaknesses that required urgent attention.
“Given that we are two years old, I think sometimes people lose sight of certain things,” Johnson said.
“What has become apparent is that there needs to be a few more checks and balances than there currently are. I am hoping, Chair and Commissioners, that this will form part of your recommendations so that IDAC and the NPA can take them on board”.
Johnson said the directorate had a responsibility to serve the country and welcomed constructive criticism from the commission.
“We have a duty to the country and we have to rely on sound minds such as yourselves to point out where we have erred and help us find our way,” she said.
Her testimony followed evidence before the commission alleging that IDAC had used its investigative powers to influence decisions within the courts and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Johnson admitted that the directorate had investigated matters outside its legal mandate, including SAPS promotions.
She also conceded that IDAC had investigated the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT), despite the matter falling beyond its jurisdiction.
The former IDAC head further acknowledged that the unit had arrested and charged Brigadier Dineo Mokwele without first verifying her academic qualifications.
Mokwele holds 12 qualifications, including a National Diploma in Mechatronics Engineering and a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, and is studying towards a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
Johnson admitted that she had relied on information provided by members of her investigative team.
“I relied on the briefing from my team. The facts I received then were incorrect,” she told the commission.
She also withdrew an earlier claim describing Mokwele’s appointment as a “token appointment”, admitting that the characterisation had been inaccurate.
Meanwhile, corruption charges Mokwele, Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo and the other co-accused have been withdrawn.
The commission is expected to resume its hearings on Thursday with testimony from a new witness.
kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za
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