Media Statement

Minister Kubayi condemns fake Whatsapp conversation and smear campaign

30 March 2025

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has been made aware of a fake WhatsApp conversation circulating online. This fabricated conversation falsely suggests that she has authorised and gave instructions for the prosecution of Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

The Minister strongly condemns this malicious and orchestrated smear campaign, which seeks to create division and pit her against the Deputy President.

This is part of an orchestrated campaign, through certain unethical sections of the media, which seeks to tarnish the image of the Minister.

Recently there has been a number of attacks, political and personal, directed at Minister Kubayi, and it has become quite clear that there are people who will stop at nothing to soil her name and reputation.

The Minister views this deliberate disinformation as a direct attack on the stability of both the government and the justice system.

It is important to note that the fake conversation features a cell phone number closely resembling that of the Minister.

Additionally, it falsely claims that the authorization to prosecute has the concurrence of the President, purportedly communicated through the Minister in the Presidency.

It further insinuates that the Ministers are involved in leaking information in collaboration with journalists.

Minister Kubayi wishes to assure the public that she will neither be swayed nor be deterred from doing her job as a Minister by these underhanded tactics.

The Minister reaffirms her unwavering commitment to upholding the integrity of the justice system. She will engage on matters only within the scope of her portfolio.

The Minister emphasizes that neither she nor anyone else has the authority to direct the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) on prosecutorial decisions.

The NPA is expected to execute its mandate impartially, without fear or favour, regardless of the individual involved or their stature.

To address this matter, the Minister will be opening a case to ensure that the relevant authorities investigate the origin of this fabricated conversation and take appropriate action to prevent the further spread of misinformation.

The Minister is calling on anyone who has information of wrongdoing or abuse of position or any other information that can assist the authorities to solve this matter to come forward.

Minister Kubayi reaffirms her commitment to upholding the Constitution and the rule of law, adhering strictly to established government protocols and channels of communication.

Having taken an oath to defend the Constitution, she remains dedicated to executing her duties with integrity, safeguarding the Constitution, government institutions, and other entities entrusted with administering the law.

In this regard, the minister will be opening a case later today as follows:
Date : Sunday, 30 March 2025
Time : 18h00
Venue: Brooklyn Police Station, Pretoria

 

Media Enquiries
Mr Terrence Manase
Spokesperson: Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development
082 338 6707

ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF JUSTICE AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA