Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has welcomed the appointment of Leonard Lekgetho as the new Special Investigating Unit (SIU) head, saying she is confident he will hold people who misuse public funds accountable.
President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Lekgetho as head of the SIU, effective September 1.
Extensive experience in investigations
His appointment follows his service as acting head of the SIU since February 2026, after the departure of Advocate Andy Mothibi to take up his role at the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
Kubayi said Lekgetho’s career reflects extensive experience in investigations, forensic work and organisational leadership, developed over nearly two decades within the SIU.
“He has progressed through various levels of the institution, gaining experience in both operational and senior management responsibilities.”
“His service as an investigator in the former Directorate of Special Operations further adds to his experience in complex investigations and the broader fight against corruption.”
Kubayi said Lekgetho’s appointment comes at a crucial time as the government continues to strengthen its efforts to combat corruption and promote good governance.
“The SIU remains a key institution in our collective efforts to safeguard public resources and strengthen accountability. We are confident that under Mr. Lekgetho’s leadership, the SIU will continue to execute its mandate with integrity and ensure that those who abuse public resources are held accountable.”
Kubayi wished Lekgetho well as he assumes the responsibility and expressed confidence that his experience and institutional knowledge would serve him well in leading the SIU and advancing its mandate.
Image: GCIS
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya confirmed the appointment on Monday.
Ramaphosa made the appointment in terms of Section 3(1)(a) of the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act of 1996 (SIU Act).
Magwenya said Lekgetho’s permanent appointment would help secure the stability of the unit and its continued impact in the fight against crime.
“The Special Investigating Unit is an independent statutory body established in terms of the SIU Act.”
The primary mandate of the SIU is to investigate serious allegations of corruption, malpractice and maladministration in the administration of State institutions, State assets and public money, as well as any conduct that may seriously harm the interests of the public.
It is also mandated to recover any financial losses suffered by State institutions through civil litigation.
Lekgetho’s experience
Lekgetho has served for more than 19 years in the SIU, during which time he held several portfolios.
He also served as an investigator with the now-defunct Directorate of Special Operations, also known as the Scorpions.
Lekgetho holds degrees in law, education and science, as well as a diploma in forensic auditing and a postgraduate diploma in cyber law.
Magwenya added, “President Ramaphosa wishes Mr Lekgetho and the leadership and staff of the SIU well as Mr Lekgetho assumes leadership of an agency that is a critical component of the criminal justice architecture against crime and corruption.”
