The office of the Public Protector has warned against “insults” directed at the institution, saying individuals who do so could face fines of up to R40,000 or imprisonment for up to 12 months.
The warning was issued in a statement from the Public Protector’s office, which said such conduct undermines the constitutional mandate of the office and the rule of law.
The office cited provisions in the Public Protector Act that make it an offence to insult, disparage or hinder the Public Protector or the office in the performance of its functions.
No specific incidents or individuals were named in the statement. The office said it remains open to criticism and public scrutiny but drew a distinction between legitimate critique and conduct that amounts to insult or obstruction.
The Public Protector is an independent institution established under Chapter 9 of the Constitution to investigate improper conduct in state affairs and to report on that conduct.
About the Author
