President Cyril Ramaphosa has established an inquiry to determine the fitness of Advocate Andrew Chauke to hold office as Director of Public Prosecutions
Ramaphosa suspended Chauke in July on full pay, pending an inquiry into his fitness to hold office.
“The inquiry will look into certain serious allegations regarding Advocate Chauke’s fitness and propriety to hold office as a Director of Public Prosecutions and as a member of the National Prosecuting Authority.
Advocate Chauke was appointed Director of Public Prosecutions on 1 September 2011.
The President has appointed retired Justice Bess Nkabine as Chairperson of the inquiry, with Adv Elizabeth Baloyi-Mere SC and attorney Thenjiwe Vilakazi as additional members,” said presidency spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya.
Chauke’s suspension follows a request two years ago by NPA head, Advocate Shamila Batohi, that Ramaphosa suspend him and institute a disciplinary hearing against him.
This after complaints that he was suppressing or delaying prosecuting cases emanating from the Zondo Commission of Inquiry, or those related to high profile politicians.
Magwenya said in terms of the constitution, the National Prosecuting Authority Act and the rules of natural justice, an inquiry as regards the allegations made against any Director of Public Prosecutions, should be conducted fairly and impartially.
Nkabinde, in consultation with the Minister of Justice Mmamoloko Kubayi, determined the seat of the inquiry and its procedures.
According to Magwenya, Nkabinde will at the end of the inquiry submit a report to the President.
