President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended the South Gauteng Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Andrew Chauke, with immediate effect, pending an inquiry into his fitness to hold office.
In a statement on Monday evening, The Presidency said the suspension was effected in terms of Section 14(3) read with Section 12(6)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Act.
“Having asked Adv Chauke to provide reasons why he should not be suspended, President Ramaphosa has decided suspension is the correct course of action pending an inquiry,” the Presidency said.
The President has since informed Advocate Chauke of his decision in writing.
Independent assessment
Additionally, President Ramaphosa indicated that both the Presidency and the public would benefit from an independent assessment of the issues at hand, particularly where there are disputes of fact.
He further expressed concern that Advocate Chauke’s continued presence at the helm of prosecutions in South Gauteng, while serious accusations are levelled against him, could negatively affect the reputation of the NPA as a whole.
“President Ramaphosa is also concerned that Adv Chauke will not be able to fulfil his functions optimally while facing an inquiry,” the Presidency said.
This decision follows prolonged concerns regarding Advocate Chauke’s conduct in critical cases and represented a significant step toward restoring public trust in the NPA.
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