North-West University lauds Andy Mothibi's appointment to head NPA

NORTH-WEST University (NWU) has added another high-profile name to its alumni ranks following the appointment of Advocate Andy Mothibi as South Africa’s new National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP).

The university today confirmed that Mothibi, who completed his BProc degree at NWU in 1987, is an alumnus of the institution and a former recipient of its Alumni Excellence Award for Public Service.

Mothibi was awarded the honour in 2021 in recognition of his work in public service and his leadership of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), which has played a central role in probing corruption and maladministration across state institutions.

NWU principal and vice-chancellor Professor Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka congratulated Mothibi on his appointment, saying the university was proud to see one of its graduates rise to one of the most influential posts in South Africa’s criminal justice system.

“We strongly believe that advocate Mothibi will continue to demonstrate integrity, strong leadership, and unwavering commitment towards serving our country and her people. We urge all stakeholders to support  Advocate Mothibi and the National Public Authority of South Africa.” 

Tyobeka said that under Mothibi’s leadership, the SIU has become a key instrument in government’s efforts to recover public funds and investigate large-scale corruption, with the unit increasingly positioned at the forefront of civil litigation linked to state capture-era cases.

He said the university believed Mothibi would continue to demonstrate integrity, strong leadership and a commitment to public service, and called on stakeholders to support the work of the National Prosecuting Authority.

Meanwhile, Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) welcomed the appointment, highlighting its significance for the country’s business environment. 

“Advocate Mothibi’s extensive track record within the criminal justice system makes this an appropriate and relevant appointment that will ensure the NPA can continue its vital role in preparing and conducting criminal prosecutions,” said BLSA CEO Busisiwe Mavuso.

Mavuso noted that a functioning criminal justice system is critical not only for democracy but also for business. 

“An unreliable system imposes huge costs on business, not only through increased crime but through the broader loss of trust across the economy. When counterparts cannot be relied on to stick to agreements, transaction costs multiply, and overall economic growth is hindered,” she said.