Chauke's prosecutorial decisions in Mdluli case weakeend State's case, Nkabinde Inquiry told

The manner in which suspended Johannesburg prosecutions boss, Advocate Andrew Chauke, used his power is set to be probed by an inquiry into his fitness to hold office.

The inquiry began on Monday in Pretoria after Chauke was placed on suspension by President Cyril Ramaphosa amid serious allegations, including a complaint by NPA head Shamila Batohi.

READ: NPA head Batohi's request for uninterrupted testimony rejected at Chauke inquiry

Retired Justice Bess Nkabinde is leading the probe.

Prosecutorial decisions made by Advocate Andrew Chauke over a decade ago have come back to haunt him, and he must answer before the Nkabinde Inquiry.

Chauke is accused of quashing the prosecution of politically connected individuals, including former Crime Intelligence boss Richard Mdluli.

Mdluli was linked to the 1999 murder of Oupa Ramogibe, a man with whom he shared a lover, but he was only charged and convicted of his kidnapping and assault.

In his opening address, evidence leader Advocate David Mahlomonyane highlighted the allegation that Chauke declined to prosecute Mdluli for murder but referred the matter to an inquest.

"There was sufficient evidence upon which to prosecute, yet Advocate Chauke did not prosecute. Instead, he referred the matter to an inquest."

Advocate Mahlomonyane claims that in referring the matter to an inquest, Chauke weakened the State's case.

On Tuesday, the commission will hear from Chauke’s lawyer, Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi.

Thereafter, NPA boss Shamila Batohi will begin her testimony.