Statement by Dianne Kohler Barnard MP – DA Spokesperson on State Security:
The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes the arrest and charging of Thulani Dlomo, the alleged “superspy” who operated at the heart of Jacob Zuma’s State Capture project.
This is a significant breakthrough in the fight against corruption and the abuse of state institutions and resources. Dlomo’s alleged crimes, including theft, fraud, and forgery involving millions in public funds, represent a brazen betrayal of the South African people and our democracy.
However, Dlomo did not act alone. He operated under the supervision of former State Security Agency (SSA) Director-General Arthur Fraser and former Minister of State Security David Mahlobo.
Both men remain central figures in the systematic weaponisation of our intelligence services for political and personal gain. Their names loom large in the Zondo Reports as well.
The arrest of Dlomo is a step forward, but it should by no means be the end.
The Democratic Alliance calls on the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption to pursue all those implicated in State Capture with the same urgency – especially key figures such as Arthur Fraser and David Mahlobo.
Justice delayed is justice denied. South Africa deserves a clean break from the era of State Capture, and that begins with holding every responsible individual accountable before the law.
In 2022, I laid criminal charges against Fraser for his role in State Capture. To date, no meaningful action has been taken. The National Prosecuting Authority must ensure Fraser is held accountable without further delay.
Equally complicit is David Mahlobo, who, as the Zondo Commission confirmed, presided over the politicisation and fractionalisation of our intelligence apparatus.