Meet the six candidates shortlisted to take over NPA hot seat from Shamila Batohi

The Advisory Panel, led by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, convened on Tuesday to finalise the screening process of the nominees for the pivotal role of National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP).

This meeting follows a prior decision to expand the candidate pool, resulting in a total of 32 applications being considered.

The recruitment was aimed at ensuring a broad selection of qualified individuals, and to that end, the Legal Practice Council (LPC) reached out to various law bodies, encouraging them to participate in the nominations process.

After thorough evaluation, the panel has shortlisted six candidates who meet the rigorous criteria for the position, which is crucial for overseeing South Africa’s prosecutorial capabilities.

Meet the candidates

Adv Nicolette Astraid Bell - Currently the Director of Public Prosecutions in the Western Cape, her extensive experience within the NPA includes roles in several key capacities, such as Acting Director and Senior Deputy Director. Adv Bell has demonstrated a commitment to upholding justice in various positions throughout her career.

Adv Hermione Cronje - An internationally recognised specialist in anti-corruption and asset recovery, Adv Cronje has held several consulting roles with organisations focused on governance and accountability both locally and abroad. Her strong background as an advocate at the High Court underlines her legal acumen.

Adv Andrea Johnson - Currently serving as an Investigating Director at the NPA, Adv Johnson’s previous roles further exemplify her legal expertise, particularly in high-stakes prosecutions, reflecting her commitment to tackling organised crime.

Adv Xolisile Jennifer Khanyile - As Chair of the Global Coalition to Fight Financial Crime, Adv Khanyile possesses significant experience in financial law enforcement. Her previous leadership roles within the NPA have augmented her effectiveness as a senior prosecutor.

Adv Adrian Carl Mopp - Serving as Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions in the Western Cape, Adv Mopp brings a wealth of experience, including roles in both organised crime investigations and financial asset forfeiture, underscoring his qualifications for overseeing national prosecutions.

Adv Menzi Simelane - A former NDPP himself, Adv Simelane has held key positions in government and legal advisory, showcasing his robust understanding of South Africa’s prosecutorial landscape.

The selected candidates will soon be informed about the next steps in the interview process, with the panel keen on maintaining transparency and openness throughout this crucial selection phase. Inputs from members of the public and legal institutions are welcomed, as the panel encourages community involvement in shaping the future of public prosecutions.

Comments regarding the identified candidates can be submitted until December 5, 2025, via the panel's dedicated secretariat email.

The interview phase is anticipated to take place from December 10 to 11, 2025, marking a significant step forward in finding the next NDPP, who will be entrusted with navigating the complexities of South Africa's justice system in the years to come.

IOL