Court rules NPA's Shaun Abrahams appointment unconstitutional
The Constitutional Court says former president, Jacob Zuma abused his power in appointing Shaun Abrahams to head of the NPA.
Abrahams was handed the job after Mxolisi Nxasana was told to leave office. Nxasana was given a R17-million golden handshake to clear his desk.
But the ConCourt says both moves are invalid and unconstitutional.
"The inference is inescapable that he was effectively buying Mr Nxasane out of office. In my book, conduct of that nature compromises the independence of the office of the NDPP," Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga said.
Nxasana has to pay back R10-million to the State and he will not be appointed back into office. President Cyril Ramaphosa has beenordered to appoint a new NPA head within 90 days.
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Meanwhile, former National Director of Public Prosecutions, Mxolisi Nxasana says he is disappointed that the court did not reinstate him to his former position.
"I'm glad about the judgement. Remember, that it comes after the high court judgement that rejected my condonation application. I'm vindicated today as my appeal has been upheld. I'm disappointed but at the same time - I respect the court ruling," Nxanzane said.