National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) head Shamila Batohi has withdrawn from proceedings at an inquiry examining the fitness of Johannesburg Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Andrew Chauke to hold office, following a reprimand from the panel.
Batohi Accusations and Inquiry
Batohi has been the primary witness accusing Chauke of making politically motivated prosecutorial decisions. Over the past two weeks, the panel has questioned her to provide evidence supporting these allegations.
Conversation with KwaZulu-Natal DPP
The situation arose during Batohi’s testimony on Monday when she revealed a weekend conversation with KwaZulu-Natal Director of Public Prosecutions, Elaine Harrison. The discussion concerned a decision to withdraw prosecution in a case related to the Cato Manor Unit.
Panel Reprimand and Withdrawal
The inquiry panel, led by retired Justice Bess Nkabinde, immediately questioned Batohi about the conversation, reprimanding her for discussing the matter with a potential witness. After a lunch break, Batohi left the chamber without the panel’s permission and was later recalled.
Batohi has formally left the sitting, stating she will not continue testifying until she has received legal advice.
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