Inquest opened into death of Tina Joemat-Pettersson – here’s why
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has opened an inquest docket related to Tina Joemat-Pettersson’s death. This means it is likely that the late Member of Parliament (MP) did not die from natural causes. However, inquests are opened when the police do not suspect foul play at the time of death. READ: Tina Joemat-Pettersson passes away AUTOPSY […]
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has opened an inquest docket related to Tina Joemat-Pettersson’s death. This means it is likely that the late Member of Parliament (MP) did not die from natural causes. However, inquests are opened when the police do not suspect foul play at the time of death.
READ: Tina Joemat-Pettersson passes away
AUTOPSY REPORT FINALISED, CAUSE OF LATE MP TINA JOEMAT-PETTERSSON’S DEATH AWAITED
National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe on Tuesday confirmed an inquest docket had been opened and is under investigation.
“An autopsy report has been finalised, we are awaiting a final report from the Department of Health on the cause of death,” said Mathe. The cause of death will only be communicated with Joemat-Pettersson’s family and not the public.
READ: Tina Joemat-Pettersson: FIVE things to know about the ANC MP
Joemat-Pettersson, 59, died on 5 June, shortly after she was implicated, alongside Section 194 committee chairperson Qubudile Dyantyi and ANC chief whip Pemmy Majodina, in an alleged extortion scheme that targeted suspended Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane.
ALLEGATIONS OF EXTORTION SCHEME AND VOICE RECORDINGS
David Skosana, Mkhwebane’s husband, said Joemat-Pettersson approached him and she allegedly asked for R600 000 to be split among the three ANC MPs. In return, they would make the inquiry into Mkhwebane’s fitness to hold office go away.
READ: Tina Joemat-Pettersson reportedly gave ID statement on Estina before her death
All three ANC MPs vehemently denied the allegations. Skosana said he opened a case with the police, while Mkhwebane complained to Parliament’s Joint Ethics and Members’ Interests.
At a press conference last week, Mkhwebane played voice recordings of someone who appears to be Joemat-Pettersson during one of the alleged meetings with Skosana. The suspended Public Protector repeatedly said the State was responsible for Joemat-Pettersson’s death, but admitted she did not know the cause.