Retired Judge Takalani Joseph Raulinga says the Office of the Independent Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) Oversight Judge will not comment on ongoing commissions of inquiry or court proceedings, insisting that respect for institutional mandates is essential to preserving the credibility of South Africa's justice system.
Addressing the media on the establishment and operationalisation of the Office at Pretoria on Sunday, Raulinga acknowledged that the Office begins its work amid heightened public interest in several ongoing legal and commission processes.
"The Office is not oblivious to the fact that the briefing comes at a heightened time of public interest matters that are before commissions of inquiry and the courts. As a retired judge, I have a duty to respect the processes of those institutions," Raulinga said.
Raulinga said commissions of inquiry and the courts are the appropriate forums to assess evidence and make findings that are sound in law, making it improper for the Office to offer parallel commentary on ongoing proceedings, or to pre-judge any person or matter.
"The credibility of our legal system depends on each institution respecting the mandate of others."
He assured the public that where complaints fall within the Office's statutory mandate, they would be investigated independently and objectively.
"I can assure the public that this Office has the statutory mandate and the institutional independence to deal with any matter that properly comes before it. Where a complaint is received within our mandate, it will be dealt with objectively, thoroughly and in accordance with the law," Raulinga said.
The retired judge also used the briefing to acknowledge the support received during the establishment of the Office.
He thanked Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi for her leadership and commitment in facilitating the creation of the Office and expressed appreciation to officials in the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development for laying the institutional foundations necessary for it to become operational.
He also recognised the National Prosecuting Authority for its cooperation throughout the process.
"The successful establishment of this Office reflects the collective commitment of these institutions to strengthening accountability, safeguarding the rule of law and reinforcing public confidence in South Africa's justice system. Their continued support is deeply appreciated as we embark on this important constitutional mandate,” he said.
Raulinga said the Office's guiding philosophy is Mutingati, a Tshivenda concept that reflects collective effort, mutual support and shared responsibility in pursuit of the common good.
He said the philosophy underpins the Office's commitment to collaboration with law enforcement agencies, public institutions and communities in strengthening accountability and combating corruption.
In the coming months, the Office will roll out a stakeholder engagement programme to establish working relationships with key institutions, while issuing public reports where appropriate and consistent with legal confidentiality requirements.
"The trust placed in this Office by the public will be met with judicial integrity, and those who come forward in good faith can be assured that their rights and safety will be protected under the law," Raulinga said.
He said the Office will carry out its constitutional mandate "without fear, favour or prejudice", adding that public trust will be earned through integrity, impartiality and unwavering adherence to the Constitution. – SAnews.gov.za
