Menzi Simelane

Menzi Simelane is a South African advocate. He has recently been appointed by Jacob Zuma as director of the South African National Prosecuting Authority.^[1] His predecessor was Vusi Pikoli.

Biography

Simelane was born in 1970. He studied at the University of Natal and became an advocate of the High Court in 1996. He was appointed commissioner of the Competition Commission in 1999.

Appointment controversy

Menzi Simelane's appointment has been extremely controversial. Before his appointment, Frene Ginwala led an inquiry into Vusi Pikoli's fitness for office. During her report she strongly criticised Menzi Simelane.^[2] The Democratic Alliance opposition party has threatened to file a lawsuit in opposition to his appointment.^[3] Archbishop Desmond Tutu described the appointment as an "aberration".^[4]

Simelane has challenged this criticism, arguing that it is driven by people who are hostile towards Black Economic Empowerment.^[5]

Justice Minister Jeff Radebe has defended him,^[5] as well as the ANC chief whip, Moloto Mathopa.^[6]

He is currently the subject of investigation by the South African General Council of the Bar.^[7]

References

1. ^ Menzi Simelane to head up NPA M&G
2. ^ Report of the enquiry into the fitness of Advocate VP Pikoli info.gov.za P16
3. ^ DA to fight Simelane appointment in court Sunday Times
4. ^ Simelane appointment is 'aberration' IOL
5. ^ ^{a b} Simelane speaks out
6. ^ ANC lashes out at GinwalaIOL
7. ^ The case against Simelane M&G

External links

• Profile of Menzi Simelane

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Name	Simelane, Menzi
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