Gauteng DPP Advocate Andrew Chauke Suspended

Pretoria – Advocate Andrew Chauke, who serves as the Director of Public Prosecutions for South Gauteng, has been suspended.

“In accordance with section 14(3) in conjunction with 12(6)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act, President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended Adv Andrew Chauke, the South Gauteng Director of Public Prosecutions, effective immediately, pending an investigation into his suitability for the position,” the Presidency stated late Monday, 21 July 2025.

“After requesting Adv Chauke to justify why he should not be suspended, President Ramaphosa determined that suspension is the appropriate measure while the investigation is conducted.”

The President has notified Adv Chauke of his decision in writing, stressing the necessity for an independent assessment of the issues at hand and the factual disputes involved.

“President Ramaphosa is concerned that Adv Chauke’s ongoing role as Director of Public Prosecutions, in light of serious allegations, could negatively impact the reputation of the National Prosecuting Authority as a whole,” commented Vincent Magwenya, the President’s Spokesperson.

“Furthermore, the President believes that Adv Chauke may find it challenging to fulfill his duties effectively while under scrutiny.”

In August 2023, Advocate Shamila Batohi, the leader of the National Prosecuting Authority, formally requested President Ramaphosa to suspend Chauke, citing worries about his involvement in several unsuccessful prosecutions.

Although the issue had initially waned, it has since regained urgency.