Media Statement

Minister Kubayi convenes first meeting of panel for selection of the NDPP

16 October 2025

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, convened the inaugural meeting of the Advisory Panel for the Selection of the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) on Thursday, 16 October 2025.

Appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa, the Panel is tasked with identifying and interviewing individuals worthy of consideration for the position of NDPP.

The meeting marked a significant step towards ensuring capable, ethical, and independent leadership for the NPA, confirming the Panel’s mandate and outlining its operational framework.

The Panel adopted the terms of reference guiding the selection process, reviewed the advertisement calling for nominations and applications, and agreed on timelines for shortlisting and interviews, ensuring a transparent, merit-based, and efficient process.

The Panel also decided that nominations and applications would be invited from interested persons and organisations through a media advertisement. Key timeframes for the process are:

• 18 - 19 October 2025: Advertisement placed in the media.
• 07 November 2025: Closing date for applications and nominations.
• 17–21 November 2025: Shortlisting and screening of candidates.
• 22 November – 06 December: Public comments on shortlisted Candidates
• 07 - 11 December: Interviews of shortlisted Candidates

The Panel will submit its recommended shortlist to the President following the completion of the process.
Minister Kubayi chairs the Panel, which also includes:

• Mr Andrew Christoffel Nissen, Chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission
• Ms Nthabiseng Sepanya-Mogale, Chairperson of the Commission for Gender Equality
• Ms Tsakani Maluleke, Auditor-General of South Africa
• Prof Somadoda Fikeni, Chairperson of the Public Service Commission
• Mr Nkosana Mvundlela, President of the Black Lawyers Association
• Mr Machini Motloung, representative of the National Association of Democratic Lawyers

This transparent and merit-based approach follows the precedent set during the appointment of the current NDPP, Advocate Shamila Batohi, whose term concludes in January 2026.

The Panel will ensure that all candidates meet the requirements set out in Section 9 of the National Prosecuting Authority Act, 1998, and are capable of acting independently, free from improper influence, and without fear, favour, or prejudice.

Members of the panel acknowledged the significance and gravity of the task before them and committed to diligently ensuring that a fit and proper candidate is appointed to this important position.

Media Enquiries: Terrence Manase, Spokesperson to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development – 082 338 6707

Audio: Terrence Manase, Spokesperson to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, on the Minister convening the inaugural meeting of the Advisory Panel for the selection of the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) in her capacity as Chairperson of the Panel.

ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF JUSTICE AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA