NPA Head Batohi Walks Out of Andrew Chauke Fitness Inquiry After Panel Reprimand

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) head Shamila Batohi walked out of the inquiry into the fitness of Johannesburg Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Andrew Chauke to hold office shortly after being reprimanded by the inquiry panel.

Batohi has been the central witness in the proceedings, testifying against Chauke, whom she has accused of making politically motivated prosecutorial decisions. Over the past two weeks, panel members have repeatedly pressed her to provide evidence to substantiate these allegations.

Tensions escalated during Batohi’s testimony on Monday when she disclosed that she had spoken over the weekend to KwaZulu-Natal Director of Public Prosecutions, Elaine Harrison, about a decision to withdraw prosecution in one of the controversial Cato Manor Unit cases.

Inquiry Panel Reprimands Batohi Over Witness Contact

The panel, chaired by retired Justice Bess Nkabinde, immediately questioned Batohi’s disclosure and reprimanded her for engaging with a potential witness on matters directly related to the inquiry.

Following the exchange, the inquiry adjourned for lunch. When proceedings resumed, Batohi left the chamber without requesting permission from the panel, prompting further concern from those presiding over the hearing.

Batohi Leaves Proceedings Pending Legal Advice

Batohi was later recalled but subsequently confirmed that she had formally exited the sitting. She indicated that she was not prepared to continue testifying until she had obtained legal advice.

The inquiry into Chauke’s fitness to hold office continues, with Batohi’s withdrawal adding a new layer of complexity to already contentious proceedings.

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