The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has filed an urgent application with the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria to halt the pension fund payout of former National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Shamila Batohi. The party argues that public funds cannot lawfully be paid out while allegations of misconduct, dereliction of duty and possible perjury remain on record.
The application stems from Batohi's testimony at the Nkabinde Commission of Inquiry, where she faced questioning over her fitness for office. The MK Party claims that prima facie evidence presented at the inquiry raises concerns about Batohi's conduct, including contradictory testimony under oath and unresolved discrepancies between her version and documentary evidence.
The party is seeking an order to block the payment of Batohi's pension and other post-term gratuities pending a review. They also want the Presidency to establish an inquiry to determine whether Batohi's conduct disqualifies her from receiving her pension benefits.
The application stems from Batohi's testimony at the Nkabinde Commission of Inquiry, where she faced questioning over her fitness for office. The MK Party claims that prima facie evidence presented at the inquiry raises concerns about Batohi's conduct, including contradictory testimony under oath and unresolved discrepancies between her version and documentary evidence. The party is also calling for the Presidency to establish an inquiry to determine whether Batohi's conduct disqualifies her from receiving her pension benefits.
Batohi's term as NDPP officially ended, and she was succeeded by Advocate Jan Lekgoa "Andy" Mothibi, who took office on February 1, 2026. The MK Party's demand has been formally communicated to President Cyril Ramaphosa, Batohi, and relevant state institutions, including National Treasury and the Government Employees Pension Fund.
The outcome of this application is pending, with the case set to be heard in March. The MK Party's move has sparked debate, with some arguing that it's a necessary step to ensure accountability, while others see it as a politically motivated attack.
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