Lawyers body backs lifestyle audits for prosecutors

THE Black Lawyers Association (BLA) has backed the call from the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development (DJCD), Mmamoloko Kubayi, who has suggested mandatory lifestyle audits for all prosecutors to safeguard the integrity of the country's justice system.

- MANYANE MANYANE [e-mail]

The BLA said it was essential to subject prosecutors to lifestyle audits, considering that the Zondo Commission of Inquiry into State Capture had raised significant concerns regarding the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). The association said this will assist in identifying corrupt elements within the NPA.

While welcoming what she described as a transparent process to appoint the next National Director of Public Prosecutions during her interview with the SABC on Sunday afternoon, Kubayi raised concerns about the internal weaknesses within the prosecuting authority, warning that they undermine public confidence.

She said there is a need for prosecutors to be subjected to lifestyle audits, arguing that those who live beyond their means, pose a serious risk to the institution and its credibility.