The National Prosecuting Authority NPA has confirmed that the process of appointing Advocate Paul Pretorius SC to the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption IDAC is at an advanced stage.
The appointment is being facilitated under Section 38 of the NPA Act, which allows the National Director of Public Prosecutions NDPP, in consultation with the Minister of Justice, to appoint suitably qualified persons to provide services in specific cases.
Pretorius, a senior advocate who previously served as head of the legal team for the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, is expected to assist with prosecutions related to the commissions findings.
Amid public debate about potential conflicts of interest due to his former role, NPA National Spokesperson Mthunzi Mhaga states, "The prosecuting authority does not believe that Advocate Paul Pretorius SC is conflicted if he were to be appointed in terms of section 38 of the NPA Act because he will be engaged as a consultant providing advisory services to the prosecution team that is leading prosecution of state capture related cases."
Despite the conclusion of the Zondo Commission, there has been widespread concern over the lack of high-profile convictions resulting from its extensive findings.
