The head of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), Andrea Johnson, has formally asked President Cyril Ramaphosa to release her from her position with immediate effect. Her request comes despite her contract requiring her to serve a three-month notice period before leaving office.
Johnson’s request follows her appearance before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry last week, where she faced sustained questioning over the work of the anti-corruption unit. Her testimony has since drawn attention to the directorate’s decision-making processes in a high-profile investigation.
Andrea Johnson Resignation Request Follows Madlanga Commission Hearing
The Andrea Johnson request to step down comes after her evidence before the Madlanga Commission raised concerns about the handling of a case involving Crime Intelligence Technical Support Services head Brigadier Dineo Mokwele.
During her testimony, Johnson acknowledged that IDAC had arrested and prosecuted Mokwele based on incorrect information. She had initially argued that Mokwele could have been used to facilitate the alleged looting of Crime Intelligence funds.
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When questioned by Commissioner Sandile Khumalo, Johnson defended her position.
“She would have been approached to make monies available under circumstances where she would not have made them available.”
Khumalo responded:
“But how do you know that?”
Johnson replied:
“From previous matters. That is how funds were looted.”
IDAC Head Awaits Response From President Ramaphosa
The IDAC head has now asked to leave office without serving the remainder of her contractual notice period. It remains unclear when President Ramaphosa will decide on the request.
National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago confirmed that National Director of Public Prosecutions Andy Mothibi has received Johnson’s correspondence.
“From our side, we can confirm that we received the letter and we are processing it,” he said.
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The Madlanga Commission continues to examine matters linked to the work of law enforcement and prosecutorial authorities. Johnson’s evidence has placed renewed attention on the decisions taken by IDAC in cases involving senior Crime Intelligence officials.
The President is expected to consider Johnson’s request and decide whether she will be allowed to vacate her position with immediate effect.
