Suspended national prosecutions boss Vusi Pikoli could be back at work as early as this month as former National Assembly Speaker Frene Ginwala has cleared him of government claims that he was not a 'fit and proper' person for his position. A summit of southern African leaders had told Zimbabwe's rival parties they should share control of the disputed Home Affairs Ministry.

But, while recommending that Pikoli be reinstated to his former job, Ginwala is understood to be critical of him, finding that he was not sensitive to national security and other interests when making prosecutorial decisions. A Cape Times report says she was also less than complimentary about the Justice Department, particularly director-general Menzi Simelane, whose evidence sought to paint Pikoli as a renegade who took the National Prosecuting Authority's independence too far. While finding that there was some basis to the government's claims that Pikoli's relationship with former Justice Minister Brigitte Mabandla had deteriorated, Ginwala had concluded that these problems were not enough to justify permanently axing him. Insiders say Pikoli is likely to resign if he is reinstated, having challenged his suspension in order to clear his name and reveal the facts behind his controversial suspension.
Full Cape Times report (subscription needed)

A confidential ANC report has slammed former President Thabo Mbeki's suspension of Pikoli, saying the action was both 'opportunistic' and 'unsubstantiated'. The scathing report, drafted by law firm Garlicke and Bousfield, concluded that Pikoli was suspended only after arrest and search warrants were obtained against Police Commissioner Jackie Selebi and that there were 'no reasons' to suspend him. A Sunday Times report says the firm was briefed by ANC secretary-general Gwede Mantashe in June to perform a watch over the Ginwala commission of inquiry. It was to 'consider and advise on issues that may affect the interest' of the ANC.
Full Sunday Times report