The constitutional court yesterday released an abridged record of the proceedings in the appeal by former National Intelligence Agency director-general Billy Masetlha.

The record was released without pages 114 to 175, or an affidavit made in camera by Masetlha.

Also not disclosed were pages 198 to 209, and 330 to 341. A report by the inspector-general of intelligence on the legality of a surveillance operation was also missing.

Intelligence Minister Ronnie Kasrils, pictured, and President Thabo Mbeki objected to the public disclosure of the documents after an interim ruling on Thursday that the entire record be made public by yesterday.

In their objection, Kasrils and Mbeki contended that Masetlha's in camera affidavit had "never been made public".

They submitted that it contained "classified information" relating to NIA investigations into subversive activities, and confidential information about cabinet discussions on intelligence, particularly activities of a third force and the Boeremag.

This information also related to past and present NIA operations and the names and sources of intelligence.

Independent Newspapers had brought an application on Thursday for access to the records. - Sapa