NPA head Shamila Batohi walks out of Chauke fitness inquiry after reprimand

NPA head Shamila Batohi abandoned proceedings at the inquiry into the fitness of Johannesburg Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Andrew Chauke to hold office, shortly after being reprimanded by the panel.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) head Shamila Batohi has been the main witness testifying against Chauke, whom she has accused of making politically motivated prosecutorial decisions. Over the past two weeks, Batohi has been pressed by the panel members to substantiate her allegations.

The controversy arose during Batohi’s testimony on Monday when she mentioned that she had spoken to KwaZulu-Natal Director of Public Prosecutions, Elaine Harrison, over the weekend. This conversation concerned a decision made to withdraw prosecution in one of the controversial Cato Manor Unit cases.

The inquiry's panel, led by retired Justice Bess Nkabinde, immediately questioned Batohi about this, reprimanding her for speaking to a potential witness regarding matters before the inquiry.

The inquiry subsequently broke for lunch. When proceedings resumed, Batohi left the chamber without seeking permission from the panel. She was later recalled.

Batohi has since formally left the sitting, stating that she is not prepared to continue testifying until she has obtained legal advice.