Fosa Condemns the Approach of the Public Protector

Tebogo Mashilompane
National Leader of Forum for South Africa

By Tebogo Mashilompane
National Leader of Forum for South Africa

The Forum for South Africa (FOSA) expresses serious concern regarding the recent approach taken by the Public Protector.

The public protector has threatened the public with a fine of R40 000 or imprisonment if they continue insulting her on the issue of Phala Phala.

We view this as a threat with intentions to scare individuals from criticizing top officials or institutions, and that’s a dangerous precedents she intending to establish.

Her threats are nothing but a sign of an individual who has failed to protect the ordinary citizens and opted to hide behind criminalizing anyone commenting or finding fault in her findings on Phala Phala.

FOSA firmly rejects any conduct that creates the impression that any individual or institution is above the Constitution of South Africa.

South Africa is a constitutional democracy founded on the supremacy of the Constitution, and all public office bearers are bound by it without exception.

The right to freedom of expression is clearly protected under the Constitution.

Any attempt, whether direct or indirect, to undermine or silence this right must be strongly opposed.

It is deeply concerning that instead of prioritising the protection of citizens and upholding accountability, the focus appears to be diverted towards self-preservation.

This undermines the integrity of the office and weakens public confidence in an institution that is meant to safeguard the people.

FOSA maintains that public institutions must act with integrity, transparency, and accountability at all times.

Leadership in such critical offices demands a commitment to serve the people of South Africa, not personal interests.

FOSA calls for a recommitment to constitutional values and for all public office bearers to act within the limits and spirit of the law.