In a pointed open letter to President Cyril Ramaphosa, the Democratic Alliance’s Justice spokesperson, Adv. Glynnis Breytenbach, has warned of an urgent leadership crisis at the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). With six months remaining until current National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Advocate Shamila Batohi must retire at age 65 in January, the DA is demanding that the President initiate the process to find a successor without delay.
Breytenbach emphasizes that a vacancy at the helm of the NPA would exacerbate existing problems—including spiraling corruption and violent crime, and the authority’s diminished prosecutorial capacity . She points out that appointing a new, independent NDPP could represent a pivotal opportunity to restore credibility and effectiveness within the NPA.
The DA spokesperson accuses the ruling ANC of deliberately undermining the NPA over many years, asserting that their inaction has left South Africa with a justice system on the brink of collapse. Although Ramaphosa had pledged during his presidency to rebuild prosecutorial institutions, Breytenbach says no real progress has been made: “Empty promises by yourself and your party ring hollow while South Africans suffer”.
According to the DA, the Constitution and section 10 of the NPA Act place a clear mandate on the President to appoint the NDPP. Given past abuses—such as the appointment of Shaun Abrahams during Jacob Zuma’s presidency—the DA is pushing for an even more transparent process. This would ideally include public participation and Parliamentary deliberations, rather than leaving the decision solely to the executive.
A proposed Private Members’ Bill aims to shift the appointment power to the National Assembly. However, Breytenbach warns that the lengthy legislative process cannot be relied upon, given the imminent retirement date. In the meantime, she urges President Ramaphosa to initiate the selection process immediately and ensure it adheres to principles of transparency and accountability.
Closing her letter, Breytenbach argues this is a critical test for the President’s commitment to justice. “You now have a chance to act and improve the lives of those you claim to value. I strongly suggest you take it,” she concludes.
Key Takeaways
- Deadline approaching: Advocate Shamila Batohi retires in January 2026, leaving only six months to appoint a replacement.
- Call for action: The DA urges immediate initiation of a transparent appointment process, involving public input and Parliament.
- Institutional reform: Shift from executive-led appointments to legislative oversight is being pursued via a Private Members’ Bill.
- Political warning: The DA cautions that failing to act now risks further eroding trust in the NPA and undermining the fight against crime and corruption.
