NPA: If we wanted to arrest Magashule, we would have done so quietly

JOHANNESBURG – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA)’s Investigative Directorate said if it was to arrest African National Congress secretary general Ace Magashule, it would do so quietly.

The comments follow just after reports of an arrest warrant for Magashule in connection with tender corruption during his tenure as Free State Premier.

Magashule claims there was talk of a Hollywood-style arrest awaiting him, adding that his lawyers would reach out to the NPA for further details.

Investigative directorate spokesperson Sindisiwe Twala said she could not confirm whether or not Magashule was being investigated: “If we were investigating him or if we were going to arrest him, we would have done so in secret. Why would we announce it?”

Twala also refuted claims that an inquiry or questions had been sent from the body to Magashule.

“I’m not aware of any questions that were sent to Ace Magashule to respond to from the Investigative Directorate.”

A PRE-EMPTIVE STRIKE BY MAGASHULE

Some, however, analysts believe Tuesday’s developments were a pre-emptive strike by the ANC secretary general.

It’s no mistake that President Cyril Ramaphosa has often explained the importance of the independence of law enforcement agencies.

It’s this value that some analysts claim will be put to question as Magashule said he had learnt of a warrant with his name on it being in existence.

Nelson Mandela University’s Ongama Mtimka said this was potentially the creation of a communication crisis which could ensnare both the NPA and Ramaphosa.

“Which, if they respond to, may result in errors they may commit and may live to regret in future and actually jeopardise the case they have.”

Independent analyst Ralph Mathekga said considering the NPA’s history, it would be crucial for it to follow due processes in handling the highly political case.

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