Justice Department will abide by ConCourt decision on Simelane

Friday, October 5, 2012

Pretoria - The Department of Justice says it has noted and will abide by the Constitutional Court ruling with regards to Advocate Menzi Simelane's appointment as National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP).

On Friday, a Constitutional Court ruling confirmed the Supreme Court of Appeal's decision that declared Simelane's appointment as invalid.

"We are naturally disappointed with the judgment. However, we will abide by same as the Constitutional Court is the final arbiter on these issues. Once we have received a copy of the written judgment, we will reflect on all issues raised therein in so far as they impact on the appointment of the NDPP," the department said.

The department added that it was pleased that decisions taken by Simelane while he was NDPP remain valid.

President Jacob Zuma appointed Simelane as NDPP in November 2009. He had been serving as Deputy National Director for Public Prosecutions and took over from acting National Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Mokotedi Mpshe. - SAnews.gov.za