Rules out for state graft probe at last

DEPUTY Chief Justice Raymond Zondo is closer to starting his investigation into allegations of state capture after embattled President Jacob Zuma yesterday published the long-awaited regulations.

This paves the way for Zondo to appoint staff and set up the commission.

Zuma published the terms of reference of the commission last month after Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng appointed Zondo to head the commission in line with remedial action recommended by former public protector Thuli Madonsela.

The regulations state Justice Zondo may designate one or more knowledgeable or experienced persons to assist the commission in the performance of its functions.

Staff can be seconded from the public service or identified from the private sector. National Treasury is to ensure adequate funds are available.

The regulations provide for anyone appearing before the commission to be assisted by an advocate or an attorney.

They may not refuse to answer any question.

The regulations provide for Justice Zondo or any officer, with a warrant, to enter and inspect any premises and seize any document or article on these premises.

Justice Minister Michael Masutha said the regulations enabled Justice Zondo to col- lect evidence and subpoena witnesses to testify before the commission and present documentary evidence.

“His responsibility is to set up the machinery to enable him to conduct the proceedings,” he said, adding that Justice Zondo will also publish rules of procedure.

“We have set a multidisciplinary team – Department of Justice together with the police, National Treasury, State Security Agency and Public Works Department – to work with the commission.

“The purpose is to provide any support that may be needed,” Masutha said,

DA MP Glynnis Breytenbach said her party welcomed the regulations.

“The wheels are now finally in motion to begin the process of holding those responsible for state capture accountable,” she said.

She said Zuma had for years frustrated efforts to hold him to account for his seemingly corrupt relationship with the Guptas. “Seeing that his schedule might soon become lighter, there is no excuse for Zuma to not be the first witness to appear before the commission,” Breytenbach said.

The DA was hopeful that the Gupta family, ANC secretary- general and Free State Premier Ace Magashule, the president’s son, Duduzane Zuma, and Mineral Resources Minister Mosebenzi Zwane would be summoned to testify.