A New Chapter for the NPA: Ramaphosa Names SIU’s Mothibi as National Prosecutions Boss

In a pivotal move for South Africa’s justice system, President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Advocate Jan Lekgoa Mothibi, the current head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), as the new National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP). Mothibi will take over from Shamila Batohi, whose term concludes at the end of January 2026.

The announcement, made by the Presidency on Tuesday evening, follows what was described as an “open and transparent” selection process. Notably, the advisory panel convened for the task reported that none of the interviewed candidates were deemed suitable. Despite this, Ramaphosa proceeded with Mothibi’s appointment, leveraging his extensive background in both prosecution and forensic investigation.

A Career Built on Legal and Investigative Rigour

Mothibi’s career provides a unique blend of experience. He began as a public prosecutor in the Johannesburg and Soweto courts before serving as a magistrate. His career later expanded into critical roles managing legal, compliance, and risk operations, including a stint as Head of Corporate Legal Services at SARS.

His most prominent role has been leading the SIU, the state’s premier anti-corruption forensic investigation unit. This experience at the coalface of probing state capture and maladministration is seen as a crucial asset for an NPA in need of rebuilding public trust and driving complex, high-stakes prosecutions.

Leadership Shift at the SIU

Mothibi’s move creates a vacancy at the SIU. President Ramaphosa has appointed the unit’s current CEO, Leonard Lekgetho, a forensic investigations veteran with over 22 years of experience including time in the famed Scorpions, as the acting head from 1 February 2026.

The President extended his gratitude to outgoing NDPP Shamila Batohi for her service during a challenging period for the institution.

Advocate Mothibi steps into one of the country’s most demanding roles at a critical time. The NPA faces immense pressure to finalise major corruption cases, improve its conviction rates, and demonstrate independence. His background suggests a leader chosen for his investigative acumen and administrative experiencea combination that will be tested from day one as he takes the helm of South Africa’s quest for prosecutorial accountability.

{Source: Citizen}

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