ActionSA demands parliamentary inquiry into NPA, calls for Batohi’s removal

ActionSA has become the latest political party to call for the removal of National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Shamila Batohi, citing ongoing failures within the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and alleged political interference in its operations.

The party is demanding a full parliamentary inquiry into the institution's leadership, accountability, and effectiveness.

At a press briefing on Saturday, ActionSA leaders expressed deep concern over what they described as a "crisis of credibility" facing the NPA.

According to the party, public trust in the prosecuting authority has deteriorated sharply, particularly in the wake of persistent delays in high-profile prosecutions, limited progress in tackling corruption, and the continued perception of political shielding for powerful individuals.

“South Africans are losing faith in the very institution meant to uphold justice and the rule of law,” said ActionSA national chairperson Michael Beaumont.

“We need to know the full extent to which political interference has infected the operations of the NPA. We believe this requires a transparent and independent parliamentary investigation.

”The party’s demand follows similar concerns raised in recent months by civil society organisations, legal experts, and opposition parties over the NPA’s perceived inaction on key corruption cases, many of them stemming from the revelations of the Zondo Commission of Inquiry into State Capture.

ActionSA emphasised that the problems within the NPA are not just administrative but deeply structural. The party is calling for Parliament to establish an ad hoc committee to investigate the institution’s leadership, operational effectiveness, and the degree of independence from political actors. While stopping short of formally tabling a motion in Parliament, ActionSA has indicated it will lobby other parties to support the call.

Despite mounting pressure, Shamila Batohi remains resolute. In a media briefing this week, the NDPP said she has no intention of stepping down and defended the work done under her tenure.“We are making significant strides, despite limited resources and complex legacy issues,” Batohi stated.

“This is not a quick fix. Restoring the credibility of the NPA requires time, commitment, and consistent effort.” Batohi, who took office in 2019 with the promise of reforming the beleaguered institution, has frequently pointed to challenges such as chronic understaffing, a lack of skilled prosecutors, and ongoing attempts to undermine prosecutorial independence.

However, critics argue that these explanations no longer hold water after more than five years of leadership.ActionSA dismissed Batohi’s reassurances as insufficient. “We are tired of excuses,” Beaumont said.

“Accountability means results, not promises.”Whether Parliament will act on ActionSA’s demand remains uncertain. With the new parliamentary session still taking shape following the recent general election, pressure will likely continue to mount from across the political spectrum.

For now, the future of the NPA—and its embattled head—hangs in the balance as calls for accountability grow louder.