Welcoming Long-Overdue Suspension of Advocate Chauke

MEDIA STATEMENT

Johannesburg, Monday, 21 July 2025 — Public Interest SA welcomes the announcement by the Presidency confirming the immediate suspension of Adv. Andrew Chauke, Director of Public Prosecutions in the South Gauteng Division, in accordance with Section 14(3) read with Section 12(6)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act.

This decision, though significantly delayed, marks a critical step towards restoring public confidence in the prosecutorial integrity and institutional credibility of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). The suspension follows recommendations first made more than two years ago by the National Director of Public Prosecutions, Adv. Shamila Batohi, and has been the subject of persistent public concern and scrutiny.

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s acknowledgment — through his statement — that Adv. Chauke’s continued tenure amid serious allegations could undermine both the reputation and operational efficacy of the NPA, is both necessary and overdue. His indication that an independent inquiry will now assess matters in dispute is welcomed and must be conducted transparently, expeditiously, and with the highest regard for constitutional due process.

For far too long, credible allegations and apparent lapses in prosecutorial independence have hovered over Adv. Chauke’s office, creating fertile ground for perceptions of political interference and selective prosecutions. It is therefore in the interest of justice, and of the public, that these matters are now ventilated through a credible and impartial inquiry.

Public Interest SA reiterates its longstanding call for full accountability in all matters relating to prosecutorial integrity. We further urge the Presidency and the Ministry of Justice to ensure that the forthcoming inquiry is both independent and insulated from any political or institutional pressures. South Africa’s constitutional democracy depends on prosecutorial decision-making that is not only impartial but seen to be so.

We acknowledge and commend the courage of those within the NPA and broader civil society who have continued to call for action in the face of institutional inertia.

ENDS

_________

📸 - Fani Mahutsi / Gallo Images

Issued by:

Tebogo Khaas