Defence Minister Angie Motshekga.
Defence Minister Angie Motshekga poured cold water on the idea that it was an indictment on her and her department’s ability to ensure accountability when President Cyril Ramaphosa assumed responsibility for the board of inquiry into the naval exercise involving Iran in January this year.
Ramaphosa removed the probe that was announced in January by Motshekga from the Department of Defence and placed it under the direct authority of the Presidency in February.
The probe was sparked by allegations that the South African Navy ignored Ramaphosa’s directive to limit Iran to observer status during the exercise that involved South Africa, China, Russia, and Iran.
The Presidency said at the time of the announcement of the investigation that the panel, led by Justice Bernard Ngoepe, would finish its work and report to Ramaphosa within one month of its establishment.
