Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi appeared before Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on Tuesday to discuss the National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) performance, budget, and strategic plans.
The virtual meeting also examined the Department of Justice’s Annual Performance Plan (APP) and budget allocations. Minister Kubayi acknowledged the NPA’s progress in filling critical vacancies and improving prosecutorial efficiency but admitted shortcomings in high-profile cases, including the Omotoso trial.
NPA’s Progress and Challenges
Kubayi praised the NPA for reducing vacancies and strengthening capacity, stating that the institution had made “quite good progress” in the past financial year. However, she conceded that certain cases, such as the controversial trial of Nigerian pastor Timothy Omotoso, “could have been handled better.”
“We are not saying the institution has collapsed when we point out areas for improvement,” Kubayi clarified, pushing back against criticism that the NPA is failing. She also dismissed claims that the government is not supporting the NPA, insisting that accountability measures are in place.
Accountability and Prosecutorial Integrity
The minister addressed concerns about internal misconduct, noting that some prosecutors have faced arrest for unethical behavior. She emphasized that the NPA remains committed to rooting out corruption within its ranks.
“We hold them accountable, but we also support their work,” Kubayi said, citing convictions in lower courts and successes by the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU). She also highlighted progress in Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) cases, including the reopening of inquests into apartheid-era killings.
Budget and Strategic Priorities
Department of Justice Director-General Advocate Doctor Mashabane outlined the NPA’s five-year strategic plan, aligning it with government priorities such as crime reduction, justice system modernization, and improved court efficiency. Key focus areas include:
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Strengthening prosecutorial capacity
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Modernizing court processes
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Enhancing cybersecurity in the justice sector
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Addressing sexual offenses and gender-based violence
Mashabane noted that while the department has improved its audit outcomes—achieving an 81% performance rating in the last financial year—it aims for a clean audit in the coming years.
Controversy Over NPA Leadership
The briefing comes amid public scrutiny of NPA head Shamila Batohi, who recently raised concerns about alleged “infiltration” within the institution. Kubayi confirmed she had met with Batohi to address these issues, stating that they agreed on “areas of concern” and would take action where necessary.
Looking Ahead
As the meeting continued, MPs were expected to press the department on delays in high-profile cases, extradition processes, and the NPA’s communication strategy. The minister assured Parliament that the government remains committed to a functional and transparent justice system.
“We are making progress, but there is more work to be done,” Kubayi said before handing over to Deputy Minister John Jeffery for further discussion.
The session remains ongoing, with MPs set to engage in a detailed Q&A on the NPA’s operational challenges and budgetary constraints.