Hon Hose Chair, let me at the very outset say that what we have in front of us currently are allegations. In terms of the Act, yes, the Minister can suspend, and I think it is the right thing to do. However, these are allegations and until the matter is concluded, it remains allegations and you are innocent until proven guilty.
The allegations against Chief Magistrate Nair are of a very serious nature. Allegations of accepting receiving special favours or benefits from Bosasa may unduly influence his judgement and actions. It is possible that it would influence him in executing his judicial duties. He is alleged to have accepted an installation of R200 000 in security upgrade at his home in Pretoria, including electrical fencing, CCTV, alarms, etc.
Yes, it is correct in terms of section 13(3)(b), the Minister is empowered to suspend a magistrate if in his opinion and on recommendation from the commission, that the conduct of the magistrate is questionable and brings the judiciary into disrepute. They need at all times to ensure a very high level of integrity. The NFP is satisfied that the allegations warrant a provisional suspension, pending obviously, like I said, the outcome of the investigation.
I think my colleague, hon Paulsen is correct: Nobody gives you anything for nothing. When they give you something today, they expect something in return. It is exactly the same thing that VBS Bank did. [Interjections.] When VBS Bank gave you money, they are expecting something in return. It is what you call a corrupt relationship. So, whether it is between Bosasa and somebody or VBS Bank and somebody, it is still a corrupt relationship. That is what actually we need to pin. [Applause.] [Interjections.]
So, let us be consistent ... [Interjections.]