By: Saneliso Mlambo
Advocate Andrea Johnson has withdrawn remarks she made about Brigadier Dineo Mokwele’s qualifications after admitting at the Madlanga Commission that she had not personally verified the senior police officer’s academic credentials or employment records before making the statements.
Johnson, the head of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), testified before the commission during hearings into investigations linked to Crime Intelligence. She was questioned about her earlier comments describing Mokwele’s appointment as a “token appointment” and suggesting she lacked the necessary qualifications.
Mokwele was appointed as Manager: Technical Support Services in the South African Police Service’s Crime Intelligence Division, a brigadier-level position overseeing specialised technical support capabilities. Her appointment, which took effect on 1 November 2024, has become one of the issues examined in investigations into alleged irregular appointments within Crime Intelligence.
During cross-examination, Commissioner Sandile Khumalo questioned Johnson on the basis of her claims. Johnson admitted she had not seen Mokwele’s academic qualifications, had not reviewed her job application or employment records, and was unaware of all her qualifications, including that she is studying towards a Master of Business Administration (MBA). She said her understanding was based on information supplied by investigators rather than her own review of the official records.
The commission was then presented with documents relating to Mokwele’s qualifications and experience. Commissioner Khumalo indicated that the records showed Mokwele met, and appeared to exceed, the minimum requirements for the position.
Following the exchange, Johnson withdrew her description of Mokwele’s appointment as a “token appointment” and apologised to the brigadier. The testimony raised questions about whether conclusions reached during the investigation were based on verified evidence or incomplete information.
Johnson’s testimony is expected to continue before the Madlanga Commission, which has yet to make any findings on the matters under investigation. The inquiry continues to hear evidence from witnesses as it examines allegations relating to Crime Intelligence investigations and appointments.