Leonard Lekgetho Appointed Head of the Special Investigating Unit

Posted 02 September 2026 Written by Acts Online
Category Legal & Regulatory Appointments

Brought to you by SAnews: President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed the substantive appointment of Leonard Lekgetho as Head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) in terms of the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act, No. 74 of 1996.

Lekgetho previously served as the Acting Head of the institution following the departure of Advocate Andy Mothibi to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in February. His appointment establishes permanent executive leadership over the SIU’s statutory mandate to investigate serious malpractices, maladministration, and corruption within state institutions, as well as to recover state assets via the Special Tribunal.

Lekgetho brings nearly two decades of forensic investigation and organisational leadership experience within the SIU, alongside previous operational service in the former Directorate of Special Operations (Scorpions). The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development noted that the appointment ensures operational continuity across ongoing presidential proclamations, civil litigation recoveries, and criminal referrals.

What this means for you, your business, or your clients

  • For yourself: No direct individual compliance obligations; legal and forensic practitioners should note continuity in SIU investigation processes and tribunal proceedings.
  • For your business: Entities contracting with organs of state should anticipate continued enforcement and review of public procurement contracts, with no disruption to ongoing SIU civil recovery actions.
  • For your clients: State-owned entities, municipal bodies, and corporate counterparties facing current SIU proclamations or Special Tribunal proceedings must maintain active compliance and cooperation under existing statutory directives.

Originally published at https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/justice-minister-kubayi-welcomes-appointment-siu-head

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