State accused of violating Pikoli's rights

Pikoli's case is underway with high profile witnesses taking the stand

Legal counsel for Vusi Pikoli, Wim Trengove, accused the state of grossly violating his client's constitutional obligations to carry out his duties without the interference of the executive. In its argument, the State has argued that Pikoli's handling of the criminal probe against Selebi was posing a national security risk.

The commission is tasked with investigating whether suspended National Prosecutions head Advocate Pikoli is fit to hold public office. Yesterday, the commission heard that in September 2007 Pikoli refused to carry out Justice Minister Bridgette Mabandla's instruction to stop executing warrants for the arrest of suspended Police Commissioner Jackie Selebi. This led to President Thabo Mbeki's suspension of Pikoli.

Meanwhile in January, Mbeki suspended Selebi after it emerged that Selebi was going to be charged with corruption and defeating the ends of justice.

Justice Department Director-General, Advocate Menzi Simelane, will take a witness stand this morning at the Ginwala Commission of Inquiry hearings.