The Democratic Alliance (DA) has expressed deep concern following the National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) controversial decision to halt its prosecution of individuals involved in the Phala Phala farm scandal.
In a recent statement by Limpopo’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Advocate Mukhali Ivy Thenga, he stated that the NPA would no longer pursue the case after what it described as a “comprehensive investigation” by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI).
Reacting to the announcement, DA spokesperson on constitutional development, Glynnis Breytenbach, articulated the party’s dismay, stressing the imperative of accountability and transparency owed to the public in South Africa.
“This decision fails to meet the expectations of transparency and accountability. It is too important a matter to simply go unanswered and without consequences for those implicated,” Breytenbach said.
The DA is moving swiftly, planning to send an urgent letter to Advocate Shamila Batohi, the National Director of Public Prosecutions, to ask her to review the decision and clarify the reasoning behind the NPA’s conclusions.
According to Breytenbach, the NPA’s assertion that there is “no reasonable prospect of successful prosecution” is troubling, especially in light of alleged critical evidence that appears to link suspects to the scandal, including CCTV footage and cellphone records.
Breytenbach emphasised that the implications of the case and the NPA’s decision carry significant weight, stating: “The public has the right to know how such a resolution could occur, especially when important evidence is seemingly disregarded.”
Breytenbach said the significance of maintaining the integrity of the legal system in South Africa cannot be overstated — hence, the DA is determined to ensure this matter receives the rigorous examination it warrants.
The NPA, spearheaded by Advocate Batohi, is urged to embrace its constitutional mandate to uphold justice visibly and rigorously.
Breytenbach’s statements reflect a growing sentiment among civil society that the Phala Phala controversy requires close examination and accountability to simply go away.
“A decision of this magnitude requires greater transparency,” she insists, underscoring the NPA’s need to demonstrate its commitment to the principles of justice and the rule of law.
The Star