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Nkabinde Extends Chauke Fitness Inquiry to June After Witness Disruptions

Andy Mothibi takes over as NDPP on 1 February following Shamila Batohi’s exit.

Overview

  • Judge Bess Nkabinde moved the inquiry’s finalisation deadline from 30 January to 30 June 2026, citing delays and procedural disruptions.
  • Chauke’s counsel Tembeka Ngcukaitobi told the panel that former KZN prosecutor Moipone Noko is willing to testify, and the application to call her was not opposed.
  • Outgoing NDPP Shamila Batohi said she did not walk out of the inquiry, apologized for how she handled the interruption, and reiterated her commitment to continue participating.
  • President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Advocate Jan Lekgoa “Andy” Mothibi as the new NDPP, effective 1 February 2026.
  • Batohi said many Gupta lieutenants are in court as the Transnet corruption case involving former executives was postponed to 19 February in the South Gauteng High Court.