The Special Advisor to Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, South Africa’s Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, has spoken out against the recent arrest of the minister by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). In a statement, the advisor clarified that the NPA had requested to arrest Minister Mapisa-Nqakula, not the other way around as previously reported.
The arrest warrant was issued by the NPA in relation to the minister’s failure to comply with the Pretoria High Court’s ruling regarding the accommodation of former Zimbabwean First Lady, Grace Mugabe. The incident in question occurred in 2017, when Mrs. Mugabe allegedly assaulted a South African model staying in the same hotel as her sons. The subsequent legal dispute resulted in the court ordering the minister to revoke Mrs. Mugabe’s diplomatic immunity, a directive that was not carried out.
The Special Advisor, who spoke on anonymity, clarified that the NPA had never approached the minister or her legal team to discuss the arrest warrant before it was issued. “We were taken aback by the NPA’s decision to issue an arrest warrant without any prior communication with the minister or her legal team,” the advisor stated. “It was a surprise to us, especially since we have been in regular contact with the NPA regarding this matter.”
The arrest warrant has caused a stir not only in South Africa but also internationally, with some questioning the timing and motive behind the NPA’s decision. However, the Special Advisor to Minister Mapisa-Nqakula believes that this is a clear example of the independence of the South African judicial system. “The NPA is an independent body and has the power to make decisions without the interference of the government,” the advisor explained. “We respect their decision, and the minister is committed to following due process and cooperating with the legal system.”
The advisor also reiterated the minister’s commitment to transparency and accountability. “Minister Mapisa-Nqakula has always maintained her innocence in this matter,” the advisor noted. “She has never sought to evade justice or disregard any legal directives. The minister is committed to cooperating with the NPA and the courts to resolve this matter.”
The arrest warrant has sparked a debate about political interference in the country’s judicial system. However, the Special Advisor reiterated that the government has always respected the independence of the judiciary and will continue to do so. “It is important for us to maintain a balance between the three branches of government,” the advisor remarked. “We respect the role of the judiciary and have no intention of impeding their work.”
The NPA’s decision to issue an arrest warrant against Minister Mapisa-Nqakula has raised concerns about the impact on the country’s international relations. However, the Special Advisor remains confident that the matter will be resolved amicably. “South Africa has always maintained strong diplomatic ties with other countries, and that will not be compromised by this incident,” the advisor assured. “We will continue to uphold our commitment to international law and protocols.”
In conclusion, the Special Advisor to Minister Mapisa-Nqakula has clarified the nature of the NPA’s decision to issue an arrest warrant against the minister. The arrest warrant, which has caused a stir both nationally and internationally, was requested by the NPA and not instigated by the minister or her legal team. The minister remains committed to working with the legal system and upholding the independence of the judiciary. This incident is a demonstration of the government’s respect for the rule of law and its commitment to transparency and accountability.
