Mkhwebane tightens up security after leaking of two reports

Public protector spokesperson Oupa Segalwe told the newspaper the request was authorised by Malunga and Mkhwebane.

Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane, the Public Protector, is seen during a press briefing at her offices, 2 February 2017, Pretoria. Picture: Jacques Nelles

Security has been taken to an advanced level at the public protector’s Pretoria office after two criminal complaints were made by Busisiwe Mkhwebane following the leaks of the state capture and the draft report into Apartheid-era state bailouts.

The State Security Agency has been called into debug the offices as per Mkhwebane’s instructions, according to the Mail and Guardian. A sweep of Mkwhebane and deputy Kevin Malunga’s offices were debugged by SSA and consent was given by Malunga.

Public protector spokesperson Oupa Segalwe told the newspaper the request was authorised by Malunga and Mkhwebane.

“Feedback was received from the SSA, advising that both the public and deputy public protector’s offices have been debugged,” he said.

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A senior official said this exercise was a drastic change from former public protector Thuli Madonsela who ensured that her office remained neutral and did not have the interference of government departments or agencies at any time.

“State security was not welcome at that office under Thuli. She felt strongly about protecting the independence of the PP’s office because it deals with sensitive information, confidential whistle-blowers that need to be assured of protection.”