Prosecutorial independence is constantly being challenged, says Shamila Batohi

NATIONAL Director of Public Prosecutions Shamila Batohi told the Nkabinde Inquiry yesterday that prosecuting in South Africa during these times is a challenging job and it does happen on occasions that people try to influence the work done by the prosecuting authority.

- ZELDA VENTER

Batobi gave evidence in the hearing of suspended director of public prosecutions (DPP), Johannesburg, Advocate Andrew Chauke. A panel, chaired by retired Constitutional Court Judge Bess Nkabinde, is looking into his fitness to hold office. Batohi was instrumental in President Cyril Ramaphosa establishing the inquiry.

For the past two days, she mostly testified in general regarding the legislative framework for prosecutors, the code of conduct, and prosecutorial independence, as set out in the NPA Act. She stressed that prosecutors must conduct their duties without any interference or obstruction, free from political, public, or any other interference.

Asked by evidence leader Advocate David Mohlamonyane whether it ever happens in practice that prosecutors are hindered in doing their work independently, Batohi confirmed that it happens that people want to influence the NPAs work.