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Casac: Statement by the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution, on the removal of Willie Hofmeyr as head of the SIU (29/11/2011)
The Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution (CASAC) notes with concern the
removal of Willie Hofmeyr as the head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and his replacement by
Willem Heath.
Under the leadership of Hofmeyr the SIU, despite its limited mandate, became one of the key structures
in the fight against corruption. We note that Willem Heath has had a close relationship with President
Zuma, having acted as an advisor to Zuma when he was being investigated by the erstwhile Scorpions on
allegations of corruption. Whilst as head of the SIU he will only investigate matters that are referred to
him by the President, his independent judgment will be compromised.
In the light of the Constitutional Court judgment in the Glenister case calling for an effective
independent body to fight corruption, this decision by the President can only serve to weaken the states
capacity to tackle corruption.
This appointment marks another step in the process of rewarding individuals, whose independence has
been compromised, dating back to the appointment of Menzi Simelane as the National Director of
Public Prosecutions.
Our country needs a robust, fearless criminal justice sector in order to deal effectively with crime and
corruption. This move by the President is a set-back in that quest.
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