To err is human, but for a public protector to make an egregious mistake in law is a sign of crass incompetence. The value of the rand and RSA bonds fell as a result of her fatuous obiter. People like me and you are at liberty to make extemporaneous remarks, but not the public protector. Judgments and arbitration decisions should speak for themselves and not need to be explained or elucidated as the learned (or not so learned?) public protector attempted to do in a discursive, incoherent and illogical way. She said her decision was based on research on reserve banks in other parts of the world, but this argument is faulty as different central banks operate in different environments. Even if her decision was correct, it would not exonerate her from acting ultra vires her powers. She broke elementary rules of law. This, of course, is excusable in a country and continent where mediocrity is celebrated. If that were not the case, she would have done the honourable thing — resign. Erick ...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.