DA calls for Mbeki to dissolve Ginwala Commission

Mbeki has revealed he knew about investigations into National Police Commissioner Jackie Selebi

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has urged President Thabo Mbeki to disband the Ginwala Commission in view of "disturbing new evidence". This refers to recent developments which show that Mbeki indeed knew about suspicions surrounding the activities of National Police Commissioner Jackie Selebi, despite his assertions to the contrary.

In a letter to Mbeki, DA parliamentary leader Sandra Botha said Mbeki had asked representatives of the SA Council of Churches to trust that the evidence at his disposal did not warrant action being taken against Selebi.

"The revelations contained in an affidavit signed by acting National Director of Prosecutions (NDPP) Mokotedi Mpshe 'seem to prove otherwise'. In the affidavit, it was stated that suspended NDPP Vusi Pikoli met with Mbeki on no less than 10 occasions to outline the case against Selebi. It also alleges that Advocate Pikoli was in constant communication with both yourself as well as the Minister of Justice [Brigitte Mabandla] on the Selebi investigation," Botha wrote.

The fundamental reason given for Pikoli's suspension was the breakdown in trust between him and Mabandla, due to the fact that the Minister was not properly informed about the investigation against Selebi.

Botha went on to say in the letter that the undeniable impression to be gained from this situation is that Mbeki acted improperly to protect one of his key political allies and in so doing undermined the key constitutional principle of separation of powers, as well as misled the people of South Africa about the real reasons for Advocate Pikoli's suspension.

"In light of these developments, for the sake of your own credibility as well as the credibility of your office, I urge to you to disband the Ginwala Commission and reinstate Advocate Pikoli with immediate effect," Botha wrote. - Sapa