Inquiry chair dismisses Shamila Batohi's demands

RETIRED Constitutional Court Judge Bess Nkabinde drew a line in the sand at the start of inquiry into the fitness of suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Andrew Chauke, saying it was not for outgoing National Director of Public Prosecutions Shamila Batohi to decide how she wanted to testify.

- ZELDA VENTER

Batohi is instrumental to the inquiry as Chauke was suspended in July by President Cyril Ramaphosa, following her recommendation in this regard. At the opening of yesterday's proceedings, evidence leader Advocate David Mohlamonyane told the panel that Batohi asked to give her evidence in one sitting, meaning that she wanted to present her main evidence and directly face questions from Chauke's team. The latter, however, indicated that they may want to prepare to cross-examine her.

Mohlamonyane said Batohi appears not to be comfortable with only facing the questions later. This prompted Judge Nkabinde to make it clear that it will be decided after her evidence whether Chauke’s team will need to prepare for her cross-examination.

“We will not delay the inquiry because Advocate Batohi wants to do what she wants. She lodged the complaint with the president, resulting in this inquiry. We will cross the bridge as to what happens later,” said Judge Nkabinde.