Former South Africa Public Prosecutor Thuli Madonsela
For her efforts, the European country has honoured her with the German Africa Award. She received the accolade yesterday (Thursday) in Berlin.
Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, lauded Madonsela as “a good choice and sending an important message.”
He said in her role, Madonsela rendered outstanding services to democracy and the rule of law in South Africa for years.
She held the position from 2009 to last month, the first woman to hold the position, after succeeding Lawrence Mushwana.
Steinmeier praised Madonsela as courageous and an advocate for the poor.
“This was not without conflict, but even death threats could not stop Ms Madonsela from fighting for what she believes in,” said Steinmeier.
She stood up boldly for what civil societies around the world rightfully demand, including democracies, the separation of powers and reliable statehood.
As Public Protector, Madonsela took on complicated cases such as the unfair benefiting by President Jacob Zuma from state resources to upgrade his rural home as well as the so-called capture of the state by the beleaguered Gupta family.
She has incurred the wrath of Zuma supporters.
Busisiwe Mkhwebane has succeeded Madonsela.
– CAJ News
