Ramaphosa launches inquiry into DPP Andrew Chauke’s fitness for office

Zuko Komisa

President Ramaphosa has established an inquiry, chaired by Justice Bes Nkabine, to determine if Gauteng DPP Andrew Chauke is fit to hold office.
Chauke was suspended in July following a request by NPA boss Shamila Batohi over the withdrawal and lack of prosecutions in alleged state capture cases.
The inquiry, governed by principles of fairness and impartiality, will conclude with Justice Nkabine submitting a report and recommendations to the President.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially announced the launch of a formal inquiry to assess the fitness for office of Advocate Andrew Chauke, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and head of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Gauteng.

Advocate Chauke was initially suspended by the President in July following a request made by the national prosecutions boss, Shamila Batohi. Ms Batohi had asked the President to suspend Chauke back in August 2023, citing concerns over a lack of successful prosecutions and the withdrawal of cases linked to alleged state capture.

To chair the investigation, President Ramaphosa has appointed the highly respected retired judge, Justice Bes Nkabine.

Speaking on Monday, Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya emphasised the constitutional necessity for a fair and impartial process. “In terms of the Constitution, the National Prosecuting Authority Act and the rules of natural justice, an inquiry as regards the allegations made against any Director of Public Prosecutions, should be conducted fairly and impartially,” Mr Magwenya stated.

He further clarified the procedural next steps: “In consultation with the Minister of Justice, the inquiry chairperson will determine the seat of the inquiry as well as the rules of procedure.”