Is the NPA compromised? Shamila Batohi's remarks spark concern

THE National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Shamila Batohi's claims that the NPA is infiltrated by corrupt prosecutors, raising serious questions about the integrity of South Africa's justice system, should be a cause for concern for all South Africans, according to political analyst Zakhele Ndlovu.

- MANYANE MANYANE

Batohi made these claims last week, in the wake of criticism directed at the NPA (National Prosecuting Authority), particularly over its handling of a special plea concerning Moroadi Cholota, the personal assistant to former Free State premier Ace Magashule.

This was after the Free State High Court ruled that Cholota's extradition from the US was unlawful.

The NPA also faced scrutiny for its handling of the case involving Nigerian pastor Timothy Omotoso, who was recently acquitted in his long-running rape trial.

Defending the NPA, Batohi claimed that the institution had been compromised by corrupt prosecutors working together with criminals to deliberately sabotage cases.

These remarks did not sit well with Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, who last week summoned her to an urgent meeting to discuss the matter.