Why the next NDPP appointment could define SA’s fight against corruption and revive the economy

Stephen Grootes speaks to Busisiwe Mavuso, CEO of Business Leadership South Africa about why the upcoming appointment of the National Director of Public Prosecutions is pivotal for South Africa’s business climate.

Listen to the interview in the audio player below.

South Africa’s business community is closely watching the selection of the next National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), a decision analysts say will shape the country’s investment climate and rule-of-law trajectory for the next decade.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed a panel to shortlist candidates for the post, with six names now under consideration.

Current NDPP Shamila Batohi retires next year after a seven-year tenure focused on stabilising an institution severely weakened during the state capture era.

Despite improvements under Batohi, the National Prosecuting Authority continues to struggle with complex corruption cases. Notable failures include the R2.2 billion Eskom corruption case against former CEO Matshela Koko, struck from the roll in 2023 due to procedural delays, and the collapse of the extradition case involving Moroadi Cholota, co-accused with former Free State premier Ace Magashule.

Business groups argue that without structural reform, including giving the NDPP clearer operational authority, greater independence, and protection from political interference.

Speaking to Stephen Grootes on The Money Show, Busisiwe Mavuso, CEO of Business Leadership South Africa says the rule-of-law is essential to a functioning democracy.

"When you look at the business-government partnership, and you look at the three workstreams that we actually focusing on, crime and corruption is actually the one lagging behind. But also, our criminal justice system is in shambles," said Mavuso.

"of the progress that we've made as a country, there is that recognition that strengthening of the criminal justice system is critical. You don't have to look far. Just listen to the Madlanga commission to see how compromised our system is."

"The current process of appointment an NDPP should be used as nexus for the reforms required to strengthen the NPA's independence."

"It's not about Shamila (Batohi). It's really about the office. It's really about the country taking seriously the issue of ensuring we can actually prosecute,"added Mavuso.

Scroll to the top of the article to listen to the full interview.