Justice minister backs Judge Zondo in inquiry fiasco

Justice Minister Ronald Lamola says he is confident in Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo and his ability to handle the work of the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture.

The minister was reacting to the dismissal of former president Jacob Zuma’s application for the judge to recuse himself as chair of the commission.

After Zondo rejected his application, Zuma’s legal team excused themselves and Zuma and left without permission from Zondo.

This forced the commission to adjourn until Monday next week because Zuma was expected to take the stand and testify.

“It is in the best interest of people of this country for the commission to complete its work,” Lamola said.

“We are confident that the judge is capable of doing his work. So far he has been handling his work very well. We want to leave this matter in the capable hands of Judge Zondo.

“We are confident that this commission will fi nalise its work and submit its report to the president.

“It is in the interest of the country for the commission to conclude its work so we know what happened.

“We believe the people appointed and the judge are capable of handling the matter.”