Pretoria: Retired Judge Takalani Joseph Raulinga has emphasized that the Office of the Independent Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) Oversight Judge will refrain from commenting on ongoing commissions of inquiry or court proceedings. He underscored the importance of respecting institutional mandates as vital to maintaining the credibility of South Africa's justice system.
According to South African Government News Agency, Raulinga addressed the media regarding the establishment and operationalisation of the Office at Pretoria on Sunday, highlighting that this development comes amidst significant public interest in various legal and commission processes currently underway. "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 stated.
Raulinga further elaborated that commissions of inquiry and the courts are the appropriate forums to evaluate evidence and deliver legally sound findings. Thus, it would be inappropriate for the Office to engage in concurrent commentary on these proceedings or to form premature judgments on any involved parties. "The credibility of our legal system depends on each institution respecting the mandate of others," he noted.
He assured the public that complaints falling within the Office's statutory mandate would be investigated with independence and objectivity. "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 asserted.
During the briefing, Raulinga also expressed gratitude for the support received in establishing the Office. He thanked Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi for her leadership and commitment, and appreciated the efforts of officials in the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development for laying the foundational groundwork. He also acknowledged the National Prosecuting Authority's 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 stated.
Raulinga highlighted that the Office's guiding philosophy is "Mutingati," a Tshivenda concept symbolizing collective effort, mutual support, and shared responsibility for the common good. This philosophy guides the Office's commitment to collaboration with law enforcement agencies, public institutions, and communities in enhancing accountability and combating corruption.
In the upcoming months, the Office plans to initiate a stakeholder engagement programme to establish working relationships with key institutions and issue public reports as appropriate, adhering to legal confidentiality standards. "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 assured.
He concluded that the Office will execute its constitutional mandate "without fear, favour, or prejudice," emphasizing that public trust will be earned through integrity, impartiality, and strict adherence to the Constitution.
