President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended South Gauteng Director of Public Prosecutions, Adv Andrew Chauke, with immediate effect, following claims that threaten the credibility of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and his questionable conduct in office.

The presidency’s spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya confirmed this in a statement on Monday evening that he would be on suspension pending an inquiry into Chauke’s fitness to hold office.

Magwenya said Ramaphosa had asked Chauke to provide reasons why he should not be suspended but the president decided suspension was the correct action pending an inquiry.

“Ramaphosa has informed Adv Chauke of his decision in writing and indicated that the President and the public would benefit from an independent assessment of issues that require elucidation and on which there are disputes of fact.

“The President believes Chauke’s continued tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions – while facing serious accusations – would negatively affect the reputation of the National Prosecuting Authority as a whole,” Magwenya said.

This decision follows prolonged concerns regarding his conduct in critical cases and represented a significant step toward restoring public trust in the NPA.

According to the Presidency, the decision underscored Ramaphosa’s commitment to upholding the integrity and independence of the NPA.

The suspension would enable a fair, impartial inquiry into Chauke’s conduct—free from interference or prejudice.

Chauke has held the post since 2011, overseeing high-stakes prosecutions in Johannesburg, including high-profile cases involving corruption and serious violent crimes.

His office has played a central role in deciding which criminal matters proceed to trial.

Calls for his suspension began in August 2023, when National Director of Public Prosecutions Shamila Batohi formally recommended that he be placed on precautionary suspension, citing concerns over his judgment and potential misconduct in several cases.

One of the most controversial decisions under scrutiny is Chauke’s 2014 withdrawal of major charges—including murder, kidnapping, and intimidation—against former Crime Intelligence boss Richard Mdluli.

By May 2025, Parliament was briefed that the process was nearing conclusion. On July 21, Ramaphosa acted, stating that allowing Chauke to remain in his role could seriously damage the NPA’s public standing.

Chauke has strongly denied wrongdoing, arguing that the concerns raised are unfounded, outdated, and politically motivated.

Meanwhile, Ramaphosa has axed Nobuhle Nkabane as the Higher Education Minister.

Buti Manamela has been appointed as the new Minister. He previously served as one of Deputy Minister Nkabane’s two deputies,

In addition, former KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has been appointed as the Deputy Minister of Higher Education.

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

IOL Politics

Source link