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Publ
ic Protector Lawrence Mushwana has decided not to refer
sensitive information obtained from "an individual in the Eastern
Cape" to the Hefer Commission of Inquiry.
In a statement yesterday he said his office had last week received,
from this person, sensitive information relating to top government
officials, private individuals and certain institutions.
At that time, it had appeared - subject to verification - that the
bulk of the matter might best be dealt with by the Hefer
Commission.
However, after further consultation between his office and the
individual, it emerged the matter did not relate to the spy
allegations against National Director of Public Prosecutions,
Bulelani Ngcuka, now being investigated by the commission.
Therefore it would not be referred to the commission, headed by
retired judge Joos Hefer.
"The individual consulted a psychiatrist on various occasions in
the past, and claims to be under a great deal of stress at the
moment," Mushwana said.
The psychiatrist concerned might have additional information
relating to some of the issues, and also regarding "the state of
health of this person".
"The circumstances thus strongly suggest that I access all the
information and/or reports in the psychiatrist's possession
concerning this person.
"This will enable me to determine how the matter should be dealt
with," Mushwana said.
The individual's identity and whereabouts were being withheld for
security reasons.
Last week, a spokesperson for Mushwana's office said the
information had been divulged by "an individual in the Eastern
Cape" who insisted on giving it only to the Public Protector
directly.
She refused to divulge the content of the received information "due
to the sensitive nature of the allegations". – Sapa.