DA Moves to Compel Ramaphosa to Release NDPP Selection Report

South Africa’s President Ramaphosa Withholds NDPP Selection Report

the Democratic Alliance (DA) has submitted a promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) request demanding President Cyril Ramaphosa release the report detailing the selection process for the National Director of Public prosecutions (NDPP).This action follows Ramaphosa’s unexpected appointment of Advocate Andy Mothibi, currently the head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), to the position of NDPP.

Advisory Panel Recommendations

The appointment occurred after an advisory panel conducted interviews with six candidates shortlisted for the role. According to a statement from the President’s office, the panel ultimately recommended to Ramaphosa that none of the candidates were deemed suitable.

advocate Mothibi is slated to succeed Shamila Batohi, whose term as NDPP concludes this month.

DA Challenges Openness

Advocate Glynnis breytenbach,DA Spokesperson on Justice and Constitutional Advancement,argued that the South African public has a right to review the advisory panel’s report. She stated that Ramaphosa’s exercise of constitutional powers should not be concealed. “This position undermines transparency in a process that was already marred by delays,an ill-equipped panel,and a failure to properly discharge its mandate. The National Director of Public Prosecutions is a very vital position and South Africans deserve to know how he arrived at the decision to appoint Mothibi,” Breytenbach said.

Vincent Magwenya, Ramaphosa’s spokesperson, has confirmed that the report will not be made public. South African Government website

As of January 12, 2026, 08:14:20 SAST, there have been no further official statements or legal challenges regarding the release of the report.