Justice Ngcobo an ideal candidate to head up arms deal Commission of Inquiry
The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes the news that President Jacob Zuma has reportedly approached Justice Sandile Ngcobo to head up the Commission of Inquiry into the arms deal (see here).
Justice Sandile Ngcobo would be an ideal person to carry out this task of national importance. He is a highly respected jurist and his integrity is beyond question. During his time as Chief Justice, he showed he has the steady, decisive, intellectual and practical leadership that such a responsibility requires.
While the character of the person appointed to head the Commission of Inquiry is crucial, so too is the terms of reference he or she is given to work with. If they are too narrow, suspicions will remain that the Commission is driven by political interests instead of the public interest.
The Commission must also be given real ‘teeth' to ensure that its investigation is unfettered and its recommendations - whatever they might be - are fully complied with.
It is essential that the Commission: