Ramaphosa appoints two senior prosecutors to top NPA posts to fight crime

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed two senior prosecutors to leadership positions in the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), in a bid to tighten the fight against crime and rebuild public trust.

Advocate Chuma Mtengwane has officially been appointed Deputy NDPP for the Asset Forfeiture Unit, while Advocate Nicolette Astraid Bell has been appointed Deputy NDPP for National Prosecutions Services.

The appointments were made in terms of the NPA Act after consultations with Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi and NPA head Andy Mothibi.

In a statement on Thursday, the Presidency said the appointments were part of ongoing efforts to ensure the NPA remained effective, independent and trusted.

“The President has made these appointments in terms of section 11(1) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act, 1998 (Act No. 32 of 1998),” it said.

This as South Africans are demanding stronger action against corruption, organised crime and state fraud.

Mtengwane brings 25 years of prosecutorial experience to the role and currently serves in the same position in an acting capacity. Her expertise includes asset forfeiture, criminal investigations, litigation and settlement negotiations.

Bell is regarded as one of the NPA’s most experienced prosecutors.

She joined the prosecution service in 1995 at the Krugersdorp Magistrate’s Court and has spent more than 18 years in senior management positions within the authority.

Ramaphosa wished both prosecutors success as they take on the responsibility of leading critical divisions within the country’s justice system.

The appointments are expected to place renewed pressure on the NPA to deliver results in several high-profile criminal cases.

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

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