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The Democratic Alliance welcomes the firm action taken by President Jacob Zuma today in firing Gwen Mahlangu-Nkabinde and Sicelo Shiceka, and suspending Bheki Cele.

This announcement is better late than never.

President Zuma’s government has been beset by controversy for several months. The Public Protector urged the President to take strong action against those involved in the SAPS lease deals as well as Minister Shiceka for his abuse of public money. We applaud the President for reaffirming his government’s commitment to the role of the Public Protector and other Chapter Nine institutions.

Accountability is critical to making democracy work. If Ministers abuse their power, they must be fired.

The Public Protector has already conducted a comprehensive inquiry into Commissioner Bheki Cele’s actions in the police lease deal scandal. We understand that legislation requires the President to establish a Board of Inquiry into the Commissioner’s actions, before any final decision can be taken to fire him. We trust this step will follow swiftly should the Board corroborate the findings of the Public Protector.

We also note the list of eminent judges who the President has named to head the Judicial Inquiry into the Arms Deal. We look forward to seeing the Terms of Reference at the earliest possible opportunity.