Batohi's critical testimony in Chauke inquiry

NATIONAL Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Shamila Batohi, the first witness to testify before the Nkabinde Inquiry regarding Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Andrew Chauke' fitness to hold office, said it was not easy for her to refer a senior colleague to an inquiry, but as the NDPP, she had no choice.

- ZELDA VENTER

Chauke, South Gauteng DPP, was suspended by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July after Batohi, nearly two years ago, requested disciplinary action be taken against him.

The president then established the Nkabinde Inquiry, headed by retired Constitutional Court Justice Bess Nkabinde, to investigate Chauke’s fitness to hold office.

Batohi took the stand yesterday, and in her opening remarks, she said giving evidence before the inquiry was not something she relished.

She said she had known Chauke for a long time and they always had a cordial relationship.

"But as the National Director, I have a duty. I believe a full hearing will be in the interest of Advocate Chauke and the NPA to ensure that a fair decision is reached. The Constitution and the NPA Act require all of us to serve the people in South Africa in good faith. These are not just words. They mean a lot," Batohi told the Inquiry.