Pretoria: 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.

According to South African Government News Agency, the suspension was enacted under Section 14(3) read with Section 12(6)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Act. The Presidency stated that President Ramaphosa had initially asked Advocate Chauke to provide reasons why he should not be suspended, ultimately deciding that suspension was the appropriate measure pending an inquiry.

The President communicated his decision to Advocate Chauke in writing. President Ramaphosa emphasized that both the Presidency and the public would gain from an independent assessment of the issues, especially where disputes of fact exist. He articulated concern that Advocate Chauke’s continued leadership in South Gauteng prosecutions could impact the NPA’s reputation amid serious accusations.

President Ramaphosa also noted that Advocate Chauke might not effectively perform his duties while facing an inquiry. This decision came after ongoing concerns about Advocate Chauke’s conduct in critical cases, marking a substantial move toward rebuilding public confidence in the NPA.