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Ramaphosa Stands by NPA Despite ‘Infiltration’ Claims: What’s Really Going On?
No State Capture, Says Ramaphosa as He Prepares to Meet NPA Boss
President Cyril Ramaphosa is firing back at claims that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is under state capture. His response comes after National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Shamila Batohi suggested the NPA had been infiltrated by rogue elements remarks she later softened. Ramaphosa says he’ll meet Batohi soon to hear her out and understand the challenges she’s facing.
The NPA Under the Microscope
South Africans have been watching the NPA closely. Criticism has mounted over how it handled a special plea involving Moroadi Cholota, personal assistant to Ace Magashule, former Free State premier. Add to that bungled cases against former minister Zizi Kodwa and the controversial rape trial of Pastor Timothy Omotoso, and it’s no surprise the public’s trust is wavering.
But Ramaphosa wants to remind everyone the picture isn’t all bleak. “There are dedicated prosecutors working hard,” he said, pointing to ongoing prosecutions including some stemming from the Zondo Commission into state capture itself. He urges people not to judge the entire authority by its missteps.
A Bit of History and Context
The NPA has long been a battleground in South Africa’s fight against corruption and state capture. Under former leadership and through turbulent political times, the institution has faced immense pressure, political interference, and capacity challenges. Batohi herself took over during a critical period and has worked to rebuild confidence and stability.
Her “infiltration” comment stirred a hornet’s nest, triggering speculation about internal sabotage and leaks. But after discussions with the Justice Minister, Batohi clarified she might have overstated things, saying the term didn’t fully capture the situation.
Ramaphosa’s Balancing Act
In a public engagement in Pretoria, Ramaphosa struck a tone of cautious optimism. He acknowledged mistakes but highlighted progress and the NPA’s efforts to stabilize itself. “We often focus on failures and forget the successes,” he noted. His planned meeting with Batohi aims to clear the air and help tackle internal issues head-on.
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) June 10, 2025
Beyond the NPA: Controversy Around Seta Board Appointments
While the NPA drama unfolds, Ramaphosa is also dealing with fallout over the Sector Education and Training Authority (Seta) board appointments. The minister responsible, Nobuhle Nkabane, faced heat for naming ANC insiders to the board and for refusing to disclose who vetted the candidates. A leaked list included heavyweights like former KZN premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube and Mike Mabuyakhulu.
The president has asked Nkabane for a full report on the process and her behaviour during parliamentary questioning, where videos showed her chewing gum—a move that sparked public backlash.
The Human Side: What This Means for South Africans
Trust in institutions like the NPA and government bodies remains fragile. These controversies matter because they affect the public’s faith in justice and governance. Ramaphosa’s efforts to show transparency and accountability come at a critical time when many South Africans are eager to see real change.
Social media reactions are mixed. Some express relief that the president isn’t ignoring problems, while others call for tougher action and less political interference in prosecutorial matters.
The upcoming meeting between Ramaphosa and Batohi is expected to set the tone for the NPA’s future direction. Will it lead to reforms and renewed public trust, or simply paper over cracks? For now, the president’s message is clear: there’s no state capture happening now in the NPA, and there are many prosecutors still fighting the good fight.
{Source: The Citizen}
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