Johannesburg DPP Andrew Chauke Cleared by Nkabinde Inquiry BODY: Johannesburg, South Africa — The Nkabinde Inquiry panel, led by retired Constitutional Court Justice Bess Nkabinde, has exonerated Johannesburg Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Andrew Chauke of all charges, clearing him to resume his duties.
The inquiry was established following accusations by former National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) head Advocate Shamila Batohi, who alleged that Chauke had made politically motivated prosecutorial decisions, including the prosecution of Johan Booysen, former head of the KwaZulu-Natal Hawks, and members of the Cato Manor Organised Crime Unit. Chauke was suspended by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July 2025.
The panel also reviewed Chauke’s decision not to prosecute former Crime Intelligence head Richard Mdluli for murder.
The inquiry concluded that there was evidence to support the charges against Booysen and the Cato Manor unit, but Batohi, who had accused Chauke of political bias, walked out of the inquiry during cross — examination.
The findings of the Nkabinde Inquiry are crucial for the integrity of the NPA, with the panel’s decision to clear Chauke signaling the NPA’s commitment to justice without fear or favor. President Ramaphosa confirmed the panel’s findings in a letter to Chauke, allowing him to return to his role as DPP.
The inquiry has been a focal point for the legal community and the public, highlighting concerns about political interference in the prosecution process.
As the NPA moves forward, the implications of the Nkabinde Inquiry’s findings are expected to affect ongoing reform efforts within the NPA and the criminal justice system in South Africa.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: enca
Source: Zandile.Khumalo
