A leaked phone call between former IDAC head Andrea Johnson and State Advocate Drushantha Ramsamy was played during the Madlanga Commission hearings [1].
The recording surfaces at a critical moment as the commission examines the handling of crime-intelligence cases. The evidence suggests a potential effort by former leadership to undermine the judicial process or avoid accountability.
In the recording, Johnson criticized the commissioners and the nature of the inquiry [1]. She said the proceedings were unprofessional [1]. The call occurred while Johnson was testifying before the commission in South Africa [1].
Further details from the leaked audio suggest a more urgent tone regarding the legal risks faced by those involved. Johnson said to Ramsamy, "If they call you, you leave the country" [2]. This statement points to a perceived threat of prosecution or detention that would necessitate fleeing the jurisdiction.
Johnson has sought to distance herself from the responsibility for how the Intelligence Division of the National Prosecuting Authority (IDAC) managed specific intelligence cases [1]. The presentation of this audio during her testimony highlights the tension between the witness and the commission's investigators.
State Advocate Ramsamy was the recipient of the remarks in the recording [2]. The commission continues to hear testimony to determine the extent of mismanagement within the agency.
“"This is unprofessional."”
The introduction of leaked private communications into a formal commission of inquiry often signals a shift toward establishing intent or consciousness of guilt. By suggesting that an official should leave the country to avoid a summons, the recording potentially transforms a case of administrative mismanagement into one involving obstruction of justice or flight risk.
