Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) State Advocate Drushantha Ramsamy has defended her conduct while testifying before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, saying she was not acting out of vindictiveness or taking pleasure in the difficulties faced by her former boss, Andrea Johnson.
Ramsamy returned to the witness stand on Tuesday morning, where she addressed criticism on social media over her demeanour during last week’s testimony.
She explained that she had developed a tendency to smile or laugh when confronted with difficult and emotionally challenging circumstances, rather than breaking down in tears.
“I’ve reached a point emotionally where I would rather laugh or smile at circumstances as serious as this than cry,” Ramsamy told the commission.
She said she did not want her emotions to distract from her role in assisting the commission with its investigation.
“I don’t want to seem like I’m a victim by crying while I’m trying to assist in their findings. I do ask for understanding that it has been a very tough road and I’m choosing not to be emotional. If I do smile or laugh under certain circumstances, please forgive me,” she said.
Ramsamy said her reactions were also influenced by the memories associated with the events she was recounting during her testimony.
“When I speak about certain things, I remember the circumstances under which it was said. I try to rather laugh about it than cry about it,” she explained.
Commission chairperson Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga reassured Ramsamy that she had no reason to apologise or defend her demeanour.
“I don’t think there’s anything to forgive. You have not done anything wrong,” Madlanga said.
Madlanga also addressed the social media commentary surrounding Ramsamy’s testimony, warning that public opinion can be difficult to satisfy.
“My sense is that you can never win. Even where comments are predominantly positive, there will be a few negative comments. If you let those get to you, then you are in trouble,” he said.
Ramsamy’s return to the witness stand comes as the commission continues to examine allegations and events surrounding the functioning of South Africa’s criminal justice and law-enforcement structures.