Ramaphosa Launches Inquiry into NPA Director Chauke Amid Corruption Allegations

Ramaphosa Moves to Investigate NPA Director Chauke

President Cyril Ramaphosa has taken a decisive, though measured, step in addressing corruption within South Africa’s prosecuting authority by establishing a commission to investigate Andrew Chauke, the embattled director of public prosecutions for South Gauteng. The inquiry aims to determine Chauke’s fitness to hold office following allegations that he failed to prosecute key state capture cases and interfered in politically sensitive matters.

Chauke, appointed under former president Jacob Zuma, has faced long-standing claims of shielding high-profile figures from justice, including Edward Zuma and former Crime Intelligence head Richard Mdluli. Critics have argued that his tenure contributed to ongoing dysfunction within the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

Commission to Assess Fitness and Integrity

Ramaphosa’s office confirmed that retired Justice Bess Nkabinde will chair the inquiry, supported by advocate Elizabeth Baloyi-Mere and attorney Thenjiwe Vilakazi. The panel’s mandate is to examine allegations of misconduct, determine Chauke’s suitability for office, and report recommendations to the president.

Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya noted that the inquiry follows Section 12(6)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act, with Chauke suspended on full pay since 20 July 2025. While the inquiry’s start date remains pending logistical arrangements, the panel has up to 12 months to conclude its findings, after which the president must table any removal decision in Parliament within 14 days.

Civil Society Calls for Urgent Action

Reactions from watchdogs and civil society highlight frustration with perceived delays in holding powerful figures accountable. Stefanie Fick, executive director of Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse, remarked:

“The allegations against Chauke have been there for a long time. The president should have acted sooner. While this inquiry is a positive step, political interference remains a concern.”

Fick emphasised that if Chauke is found unfit, removal is essential to restore integrity within the NPA, an institution central to prosecuting corruption and safeguarding South Africa’s criminal justice system.

Similarly, Zukiswa Kota of the Public Service Accountability Monitor stressed the importance of credible leadership:

“The head of such a critical institution must uphold integrity, impartiality, and transparency. The NPA’s credibility depends on leaders who can resist corruption and act without fear or favour.”

A Shadow of State Capture

Chauke’s appointment under Zuma and subsequent actions have drawn scrutiny, particularly regarding his alleged protection of individuals implicated in state capture. Critics argue that his interference allowed politically connected figures to evade prosecution, eroding public confidence in the justice system.

Observers note that this inquiry represents not only a test of Chauke’s accountability but also a broader challenge for Ramaphosa: demonstrating that South Africa’s prosecutorial institutions can operate independently, even against entrenched political influence.

Public and Political Stakes

The inquiry has captured attention across social media and political circles, with calls for swift and transparent proceedings. For many South Africans, the outcome will signal whether the NPA can regain its role as an impartial guardian of justice or remain hampered by political entanglements.

As the nation waits for the commission to convene, civil society and legal experts alike will be watching closely. The Chauke case, entwined with the legacy of state capture, is more than a disciplinary probe, it is a litmus test for the integrity of South Africa’s criminal justice system.

{Source: The Citizen}

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