Radebe: Simelane fit to hold office

30 November 2009 - 15:27

Justice Minister says Menzi Simelane is fit to hold office, meanwhile a complaint has already been lodged against Simelane.

Justice Minister Jeff Radebe on Monday said newly-appointed National Prosecuting Authority head, Advocate Menzi Simelane, would take office on Tuesday, December 1.

Addressing the media in Pretoria, Radebe said Simelane's capabilities were questioned by individuals from the media, on the grounds of accusations made against him in the Ginwala inquiry and the Public Service Commission.

Radebe said that Simelane was fit to hold office and that he was never afforded the opportunity to state his case, and that it is an infringement of his human rights.

He added that no one would interfere with the independence of the NPA.

Quoting the constitution in his responding address, Simelane said that he is ready and proud to take over the position.

At the same time, the General Bar Council has appointed three advocates to investigate a complaint against Simelane.

The Council says the team will look into allegations made against Simelani by former Speaker of the National Assembly, Frene Ginwala.

Meanwhile Advocate Pat Ellis has lodge a complaint against Simelani with the Pretoria Bar Council, because Ellis says he believes in his personal capacity that Simelani's professional conduct during the Ginwala Commission has to be investigated.

His complaint will be discussed tomorrow.