Retired Judge Takalani Joseph Raulinga, the newly appointed Oversight Judge of South Africa’s Independent Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), has pledged to uphold independent constitutional oversight to strengthen accountability and public confidence in the country’s anti-corruption efforts.
Speaking at his first media briefing in Pretoria on Sunday, 19 July 2026, Raulinga said the operationalisation of the Office of the IDAC Oversight Judge completed a key component of South Africa’s constitutional framework by providing independent judicial oversight of the anti-corruption directorate.
He stressed that the Office was established to reinforce institutional integrity rather than obstruct law enforcement, ensuring investigative powers are exercised lawfully, fairly and transparently. Raulinga also underscored the importance of maintaining institutional independence while fostering cooperation among justice sector agencies.
The Office will investigate complaints of alleged misconduct involving prosecutors, investigators and other personnel working with the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption, particularly in cases involving serious corruption, commercial crime and financial offences.
Raulinga assured the public that all complaints would be assessed impartially, without regard to status, influence or political affiliation, while guaranteeing confidentiality for whistleblowers and complainants under the Protected Disclosures Act.
Although the Office is still establishing its structures, complaints can already be submitted electronically, with additional secure submission channels expected to be introduced. Raulinga said the Office would operate within its constitutional mandate, complement existing law enforcement agencies, and remain accountable to Parliament through the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development.