Prosecutions, Adv. Vusi Pikoli
24 September 2007
President Thabo Mbeki has with immediate effect suspended the National
Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Vusi Pikoli, in terms of
section 12 (6) (a) of the National Prosecution Act 32 of 1988. This decision
was taken on the basis of an irretrievable breakdown in the working
relationship between the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development and
the NDPP.
The President considers the relationship between the Minister and the NDPP
central to the effective administration of justice and the smooth functioning
of the National Prosecuting Authority. The relationship breakdown had adverse
implications for the NPA and the functioning of the criminal justice
system.
An enquiry will be instituted in terms of the NPA Act to investigate all
matters pertaining to the functioning and role of the NDPP, and make
recommendations to the President.
The President has appointed Deputy National Director Adv. Mokotedi Mpshe as
Acting National Director of Public Prosecutions to ensure that the work of the
NPA continues unhindered.
Government would like to reassure all South Africans that the functioning of
the justice system will not be compromised, especially within the context of
the collective challenge to fight crime.
Enquiries:
Themba Maseko (Government Spokesperson)
Cell: 083 645 0810
Issued by: Government Communications (GCIS)
24 September 2007
