Longest-serving post-apartheid Defence Minister (9 years, 2012-2021). Former MK operative and Zuma ally. Promoted to Speaker of Parliament despite presiding over the worst period of defence procurement irregularity (R5B+ in irregular expenditure). Later arrested for personal corruption — allegedly received R4.2M from a convicted fraudster. Resigned as Speaker. Her tenure illustrates how political protection shields ministers from accountability for departmental governance failures.