Three Years On, Justice Eludes Whistleblower Marumo Phenya’s Family

MEDIA STATEMENT

Tomorrow marks three years since the brutal assassination of Marumo Phenya, co-founder of Foursight Business IT Solutions and a courageous whistleblower who exposed corruption at the Department of Home Affairs.

Despite the passage of time, his killers remain at large — an affront to justice and a painful reminder of the perils faced by those who dare to challenge corruption in South Africa.

Evidence gathered early in the investigation — reportedly including critical digital and forensic material obtained by victims and associates — has not translated into arrests or prosecutions. Suspects are said to be known, yet no meaningful progress has been made. This pattern of delay and apparent neglect evokes uncomfortable parallels with the bungled investigation into the assassination of the late Babita Deokaran, another whistleblower who paid the ultimate price for her integrity.

These failures reflect a troubling and deep-seated malaise within our criminal justice system — a pattern of institutional lethargy and selective accountability that undermines the public’s faith in the rule of law. Whistleblowers, whose actions are the lifeblood of transparency and accountability, continue to face deadly retaliation, while perpetrators of corruption often operate with impunity.

“The silence surrounding Marumo’s murder is intolerable. Justice delayed in his case is justice denied to all whistleblowers who risk everything to protect our democracy,”— Tebogo Khaas, Chairperson, Public Interest SA

As we commemorate Marumo Phenya’s life and legacy, Public Interest SA renews its call on the South African Police Service, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, and the National Prosecuting Authority to act decisively and transparently in pursuing justice.

The memory of Marumo Phenya — a father, husband, innovator, and patriot — must not fade into bureaucratic obscurity. His courage calls us to act. His death demands accountability.

In ten days’ time, Public Interest SA will host the 3rd Annual Whistleblowers Awards — a national platform that honours gallant compatriots who speak up when they encounter wrongdoing, often at great personal cost. The Awards recognise the extraordinary courage of ordinary citizens who refuse to look away.

Limited seats are available for this prestigious event. Enquiries to secure tickets may be directed to awards@publicinterest.org.za.

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Issued by:

Public Interest SA Communications