Overview
- Mothibi’s appointment takes effect on 1 February 2026, succeeding Shamila Batohi at the National Prosecuting Authority.
- Leonard Lekgetho, the SIU’s chief operations officer, was named acting head of the SIU from 1 February.
- The Presidency confirmed the advisory panel’s finding that none of the six interviewees was suitable and said the panel’s full report will not be released.
- An urgent court bid by B Xulu and Partners seeks to halt the appointment, alleging procedural flaws and the mishandling of objections related to candidate Hermione Cronje.
- Reactions are mixed, with civil-society and parties noting concerns about process as others, including Parliament’s justice committee, welcome Mothibi’s track record and promise robust oversight.