Former National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) head Mxolisi Nxasana has acknowledged that the responsibility for prosecuting apartheid-era crimes rested with him during his time in office, but says he had no knowledge of the outstanding cases.
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Nxasana made the admission while testifying before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) cases inquiry on Thursday. The commission is examining allegations of political interference in the prosecution of cases referred by the TRC.
During his testimony, Nxasana said he was unaware of the apartheid-era matters that had been handed to the NPA for prosecution following the conclusion of the TRC process.
TRC Inquiry Examines Handling of Apartheid-Era Prosecutions
Nxasana told the inquiry that he had no knowledge of the outstanding cases because his predecessor, Nomngcobo Jiba, had never briefed him on them.
He maintained that although the responsibility ultimately fell under his leadership, he was unaware of the existence of the matters during his tenure.
Parties Seek Opportunity to Cross-Examine Mxolisi Nxasana
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Several parties participating in the inquiry have indicated that they intend applying for permission to cross-examine Nxasana over his evidence.
Should the application be approved, Nxasana will return to the commission to continue his testimony.
