President Zuma must suspend Heath as head of SIU
The concerns raised in the responses this week from former President, Thabo Mbeki, and former National Director of Public Prosecutions, Bulelani Ngcuka, to statements made last week by Adv. Willem Heath have made it abundantly clear that for Adv. Heath to continue in office under these circumstances is untenable (see here).
President Zuma has stated that he is investigating the statements, and the Democratic Alliance (DA) has welcomed that. But that is not enough.
The position of head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) requires the highest standards of propriety and integrity. The unit is charged with investigating serious cases of corruption, and the investigations must be conducted in a manner that commands the trust of the South African people. If there is any room at all for the perception that investigations will be done in a selective manner, it undermines the credibility of the criminal justice system.
While the President is investigating, we call on him to:
1. Suspend Heath immediately from his position until the matter is resolved;
2. Resolve the matter as speedily as possible, given the large degree of uncertainty that already exists in the justice system regarding the position of Adv. Menzi Simelane;
3. Probe and adequately address the serious conflict of interest arising from Heath's two private investigating firms; and
4. Ensure that the resolution will not involve an unwarranted retirement package for Adv. Heath as a reward for his loyalty to the President, at the taxpayers' expense.
To have the head of the SIU making serious allegations against senior public figures without offering any proof, and questioning the judgments of three courts, is irresponsible and shows a lack of judgment. In addition, it raises concerns about his ability to act impartially. Given that these are essential requirements for the head of the SIU, it is clear that Adv. Heath cannot occupy it.
Statement issued by Debbie Schafer MP, DA Shadow Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, December 11 2011
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