DA: Why are Nkandla suspects off the hook?

The DA is demanding a "very credible explanation" from the National Prosecuting Authority for its decision not to prosecute Nkandla's architect, and former directors-general of the Department of Public Works, in connection with allegations of fraud in the "security upgrading" of President Jacob Zuma's private home.

Since last year architect Minenhle Makhanya has been embroiled with the Special Investigating Unit, which has blamed him for excessive spending on Nkandla.

Siviwe Dongwana, Sam Vukela and Solomon Malebye, former directors-general of the Department of Public Works, were also deemed responsible.

Police Minister Nathi Nhleko said in parliamen yesterday in response to questioning by the DA: "On July 28 2015, all these cases were [declared] nolle prosequi ["will no longer prosecute"] by the NPA. The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation [the Hawks] wishes to put on record that there is no investigation against Mr Makhanya."

The DA's Patricia Kopane said yesterday that the party would ask the NPA for "the record of decision" not to follow through with court action.

"The fact that . they were declared nolle prosequi by the NPA shows that the protection of Zuma's pilfering of the state, and the actors who aided and abetted Zuma's theft, has no bounds," Kopane said.