Attention: News Editors

For immediate release

16 March 2007

Outcome of the meeting of the three agencies

The Public Protector Adv Lawrence Mushwana, the head of the National Prosecuting Authority Adv Vusi Pikoli, and the Auditor General Terence Nombembe met on Thursday to discuss a way forward regarding recent allegations that have been made concerning the arms procurement process.

The meeting was held to confirm the variety of requests for investigation that have been sent separately to the institutions and to assess if there were overlapping matters that could be addressed jointly.

However, the three principals came to the conclusion that none of the requests required their joint consideration. They agreed that each institution would deal with issues that have been raised based on their own mandates. This means that the three agencies will not reconstitute a joint investigation team as was structured in the 2001 investigation.

The agencies will respond directly to the individuals who made enquiries and requests for investigation.

The Public Protector's mandate is to investigate any conduct in state affairs or in the public administration that is alleged or suspected to be improper or results in any impropriety or prejudice.

The National Prosecuting Authority has the power to institute and conduct criminal proceedings on behalf of the State, and carry out any necessary functions incidental to instituting and conducting such criminal proceedings (this includes investigation).

The Auditor General audits and reports on the accounts, financial statements and financial management of all institutions funded from the National Revenue Fund including government departments and administration in all three spheres.  This includes the review of government internal control systems and procedures for adequacy and compliance.

The institutions, in line with their respective mandates, have reaffirmed and expressed their willingness to cooperate with any investigative agency that might request their assistance.

For more information, contact Charles Phahlane, spokesperson for the Public Protector on 012 366 7006 or 082 856 8188.

Issued jointly by the Offices of the Public Protector, National Prosecutions Authority and Auditor General.