Day one of the National Director of Public Prosecutions interviews opened amid tension after Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi disclosed that the Democratic Alliance’s lawyers had threatened to interdict the process.
Despite the legal warning, the interview panel proceeded, conducting initial assessments of shortlisted candidates. The session focused on candidates’ legal experience, leadership credentials, independence, and plans for prosecutorial priorities, with probing questions about corruption, case management, and institutional reform.
Several applicants outlined strategies to strengthen prosecutorial capacity and protect prosecutorial independence, while others faced tough scrutiny over past decisions and governance approaches.
The atmosphere was formal and at times strained as legal and political stakes were evident.
Observers noted the panel’s determination to maintain the timetable despite external pressure. The day concluded with the panel agreeing to reconvene, signalling that further interviews and deliberations will continue before final recommendations are prepared for President Cyril Ramaphosa and submitted to Parliament.
The six shortlisted candidates are Xolisile Khanyile, Hermione Cronje, Menzi Simelane, Nicolette Bell, Adrian Mopp and Andrea Johnson. These names were published as the shortlist for the National Director of Public Prosecutions interviews.
