Political parties demand Batohi's accountability amid NPA sabotage allegations

NATIONAL prosecutions boss Shamila Batohi is facing renewed criticism from several parties, including the EFF, the uMkhonto weSizwe Party and ActionSA, over her recent statements about sabotage within the NPA.

- MASHUDU SADIKE

Last week Batohi, responding to criticism over several embarrassing defeats in high-profile cases said there had been "infiltration" of the prosecution service, but later backtracked, saying she had used the wrong term and instead that certain cases were being deliberately sabotaged.

Despite the backtracking by Batohi, the parties remain unconvinced and are demanding accountability, saying if there is sabotage then this happened under her watch and she should take responsibility by stepping down.

The MK Party yesterday expressed concern over Batohi's statements, emphasising the need for transparency and accountability within the NPA.

“We are the first ones to call for her (Batohi) head. It's been three weeks since we made that call. She has shown that she is incompetent and therefore must go,” MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela said.

Last week the EFF wrote to National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza, requesting an urgent debate on what it believes is an institutional crisis at the NPA.