Shamila Batohi Appoints Legal Team As Inquiry Into Andrew Chauke Resumes

Former National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) head Shamila Batohi has appointed a legal team to represent her at the inquiry into Gauteng director of public prosecutions Andrew Chauke. It remains uncertain when she will return to the witness stand.

Batohi exited the proceedings in December after facing intense cross-examination, explaining that she could not continue without legal representation.

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The inquiry is now set to resume on Thursday after an attempt to delay the hearings to next week was turned down.

On Monday, the Nkabinde Inquiry dismissed an application by evidence leaders to push the proceedings to 17 February, keeping the original schedule intact.

Nkabinde Inquiry Rejects Postponement Request

Instead of granting a postponement, the panel has authorised Chauke’s legal team to begin leading evidence before the evidence leaders wrap up their case. This shift allows the defence to present its version while the inquiry continues to progress.

Evidence leaders will still be permitted to call additional witnesses if they are willing to testify, ensuring that the process remains open to further testimony where necessary.

Defence Witnesses and Tight Timelines Set

The first witness to testify on behalf of Chauke is Advocate Sello Maema, the former Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West.

The panel has also imposed firm deadlines to keep the inquiry on track. Witness statements must be shared at least two days before testimony, with initial statements due by 10 February. Any supplementary documents must be submitted by 12 noon on 11 February.

The inquiry is expected to conclude its work by June.