Leonard Lekgetho Appointed Acting Head of SIU as Anti-Corruption Fight Continues

A new chapter in South Africa’s fight against corruption has begun with the appointment of Mr Leonard Gaoretelelwe Lekgetho as the Acting Head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Hailing from Taung in the North West, Lekgetho’s appointment represents continuity, institutional memory, and an unwavering commitment to justice, integrity, and accountability within one of the country’s most critical anti-corruption bodies.

From Scorpion to Cobra

Mr Lekgetho’s career has been defined by frontline service in combating corruption and organised crime. He began his journey as a Special Investigator with the Directorate of Special Operations (the Scorpions), where he investigated complex cases involving fraud, organised crime, and cybercrime.

When the Scorpions were disbanded, Lekgetho’s mission did not end. He transitioned to the SIU — symbolised by the cobra — carrying forward the same precision, focus, and resolve. His move was not a departure, but an evolution in service to the same cause: protecting the public purse.

A Leader Forged Within the SIU

Mr Lekgetho is a long-serving leader at the SIU, bringing over two decades of institutional experience. His rise through the ranks reflects both capability and trust, having held several senior leadership roles including:

• Chief Forensic Investigator

• Projects Director

• Chief National Investigations Officer

• Chief Operations Officer

• Acting Head of the SIU

He has been instrumental in overseeing and shaping numerous high-profile investigations, helping strengthen the SIU’s investigative depth and operational effectiveness.

Academic and Global Expertise

Lekgetho’s leadership is underpinned by extensive academic and professional training. His qualifications include:

• LLB

• BSc Honours in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

• Diplomas in Criminal Justice, Cyber Law, and Advanced Project Management

He has also completed specialist training at the FBI Academy in Washington DC and the Commonwealth Africa Anti-Corruption Centre, equipping him with both local and global perspectives on corruption, governance, and institutional reform.

Commitment to the SIU Mandate

As Acting Head, Mr Lekgetho has pledged to lead the SIU with principled leadership, operational excellence, and a renewed commitment to its constitutional mandate. His focus includes strengthening investigative capacity, enhancing collaboration with key stakeholders, and ensuring the SIU remains a trusted and formidable force against corruption and maladministration.

Tribute to Adv Andy Mothibi

The SIU also paid tribute to its former head, Advocate Andy Mothibi, who has been appointed National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP).

Congratulating Mothibi, Lekgetho said:

“I am immensely grateful to have served under his leadership, as the SIU has transformed into a powerful entity for accountability, demonstrating impressive capabilities in complex civil investigations, legal proceedings, and the recovery of public funds. His appointment as the NDPP will strengthen the SIU’s relationship with the NPA. We will carry the baton forward and strengthen the SIU as the guardian of the public purse.”

With Lekgetho at the helm, the SIU enters its next phase with clarity, courage, and renewed purpose, as South Africa intensifies its fight against corruption.