THE United Democratic Movement has commended the police for their swift move to open an inquest docket into former minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson’s death.
The party's national organiser Nyaniso Mfihlo said this would end wide speculations in the public domain about the cause of her death.
“We urge police to do their investigations without fear or favour,” he said.
Police confirmed on Monday, 20 June, that an autopsy had been completed.
The police were now waiting for a final report from the Department of Health on the cause of death.
“We hope that the final report from the Department of Health regarding her death will bring closure to her children, family and her organisation as well,” said Mfihlo.
Joemat-Pettersson (59) died a few days after suspended Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane alleged that she tried to extort money from her husband, Mandla Skosana.
Mkhwebane said she demanded R60 000 bribe, which would be split between Joemat-Pettersson, Section 194 committee chairman Qubudile Dyantyi and ANC Chief Whip Pemmy Majodina.
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The money was allegedly to make the inquiry into Mkhwebane’s fitness to hold office "go away".
Dyantyi and Majodina have denied the allegations.
Mkhwebane refused to continue to give evidence at the inquiry until Dyantyi recused himself.
She said the chairman “was driven by a predetermined outcome” to get rid of her.
Members of the committee have until 21 June 2023 to submit written questions to Mkhwebane.
The evidence leaders will submit their questions by 25 June.
The committee is expected to finalise its work on 28 July.
”In terms of the amendments, whether or not the PP has responded in writing to the questions posed, or given oral evidence or a combination thereof, she will still be afforded an opportunity to make a closing argument herself, or at her election via a legal representative to the committee orally and/or in writing. In addition, she will be provided an opportunity to comment on the committee’s draft report before it is adopted and tabled in the National Assembly,” said Dyantyi.
If Mkhwebane fails to answer the questions or to provide comments to the draft report, it will be presumed that she has elected not to avail herself to do so.
“The committee will, therefore, not be precluded from proceeding to deliberations and making its findings based on the evidence before it," Dyantyi added.
