Staff Reporter
The inquiry into whether suspended South Gauteng Director of Public Prosecutions Andrew Chauke is fit to hold office will hear evidence this week from former police reservist Aris Danikas.
The inquiry, chaired by retired Justice Bess Nkabinde, said in a statement on Sunday night that Danikas would start giving evidence on Monday and is expected to testify until Wednesday.
Danikas emerged as a controversial figure in the Cato Manor saga after alleging serious abuses by members of the unit, after he had fallen out with them.
His evidence is expected to cover the institution of racketeering charges against former KZN Hawks head Major-General Johan Booysen and members of the Cato Manor Organised Crime Unit, said the statement.
He will also testify about video material previously submitted to the National Prosecuting Authority and “the evidentiary basis underlying prosecutorial decisions taken in those matters”.
Evidence for Chauke will be led by Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi SC.
Danikas will testify via a virtual link from the South African Embassy in Athens.
The inquiry is examining allegations linked to the institution and defence of racketeering charges against Booysen and members of the former Cato Manor unit (since set aside), as well as the withdrawal of murder and related charges against former crime intelligence head Richard Mdluli in the Tefo Abel Ramogibe case.
Chauke was suspended in July last year pending the outcome of the process.
The panel must make findings and recommendations on whether Chauke complied with the Constitution and the NPA Act, properly exercised prosecutorial discretion, respected court processes, acted without fear, favour or prejudice, and whether any of his actions or omissions brought the NPA into disrepute.
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