The National Prosecuting Authority has defended itself against allegations of bias. The claims against the prosecuting body were triggered by its failure to see through some of the major cases it has undertaken.
Among the matters that the NPA has struggled to conclude is the corruption trial of former President Jacob Zuma which has been on the roll for many years, corruption cases against former Eskom Chief Executives Brian Molefe and Matshela Koko both of whom have punched holes on the state’s evidence against them.
On Thursday the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting in Palm Ridge granted the prosecuting authority a last postponement in the corruption case of former minister Zizi Kodwa and his co-accused, businessman Jehan Mackay.
Mackay is accused of bribing Kodwa when he was minister of sports.
The two have made representations to the NPA calling for charges against them to be dropped.
NPA Gauteng spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwana said the request was meant to allow the body to thoroughly assess the two’s representations and come up with a response.
“ The person who is dealing with the representations would be in contact with the evidence contained in the docket for the first time and would also require a report from the prosecutor that decided to prosecute, so it also involves a lot of consultations including the investigation officer as well as the complainants in the matter, hence you see the unfortunate delays. But they are also necessary delays”, said Mjonondwana.
She argued delays in other cases including that of former National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Ngcuka were necessary.
Kodwa and Mackay are expected back in court on the 1st of November.
Just like Molefe and Koko, Kodwa, Marisa-Ngcakula and former ANC spokesperson Pule Mabe had to resign as members of parliament when charges were brought against them.