Panel alters procedure in Nkabinde inquiry to meet NPA Act deadlines

In an extraordinary move, the panel in the Nkabinde inquiry has altered its normal hearing procedure, allowing suspended National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Gauteng head Advocate Andrew Chauke to lead evidence before the evidence leaders have closed their case.

The panel cited statutory deadlines and limited time to complete the process, after the evidence leaders requested a postponement because their next witnesses were not ready.

Delivering the ruling, Advocate Baloyi-Mere said the approach was necessary to avoid prejudice and ensure compliance with the National Prosecuting Authority Act.

"The inquiry directs as follows: the application for postponement to the 17th of February 2026 is dismissed. The counter application raised by Advocate Chauke’s team is granted, subject to the necessary modification of the relief sought in the notice of motion. 1.3: Advocate Chauke will open his case and commence with leading evidence on Thursday, the 12th of February 2026."

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