Presidency denies Mbeki delayed Selebi prosecution

The Presidency has denied that Mbeki was involved in influencing the prosecution against Selebi

The Presidency has denied allegations that President Thabo Mbeki played a major role in influencing the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) not to prosecute police Commissioner Jackie Selebi late last year.

In September 2007, it was reported that suspended NPA head Vusi Pikoli had obtained a warrant to arrest Selebi.

Mbeki suspended Pikoli, citing a breakdown in the relationship with Justice Minister Bridgette Mabandla.

A letter written to Mbeki by Pikoli in May 2007 contained detailed information about the allegations against Selebi.

At a hastily convened media briefing, Mbeki's legal adviser, Mojanku Gumbi, said the President acted "immediately" when he learned that the NPA was ready to proceed with action against Selebi.