NPA bungles another case: ‘It’s a huge disservice to South Africans' - Karyn Maughan (News24)

Tshidi Madia (in for Clement Manyathela on 702) speaks with Michael Marchant, Head of Research at Open Secrets and News24 Legal Journalist Karyn Maughan.

Listen below:

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has developed a reputation for bungling high-profile cases.

Most recently, the Bloemfontein High Court found that ex-Free State Premier Ace Magashule’s former assistant Moroadi Cholota’s extradition from the US was unlawful.

As a result, the judge said she was 'free to go'.

We have seen a string of decisions against the NPA in high-profile cases, from the acquittal in the Nulane matter to the withdrawal of charges against Matshela Koko and others.

This raises questions about the NPA’s inability to handle important cases.

Maughan says the NPA made a shocking mistake in proceeding with Cholota’s extradition, knowing they did not have jurisdiction to do so.

“This seemed to be fundamentally founded on a very ill-conceived awareness of the law as it stands.”

- Karyn Maughan, legal journalist - News24

She adds that they have developed a problematic pattern of arresting suspects before thoroughly investigating.

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“It has been a long time since we have seen a really high-profile conviction.”

- Karyn Maughan, legal journalist - News24

“It is a huge disservice to the vast majority of South Africans who want this country to work.”

- Karyn Maughan, legal journalist - News24

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