The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) may have cleared up an injustice that has tarnished the image of the office, with its decision yesterday to charge former deputy president Jacob Zuma.

Two years ago the former head of the NPA, Bulelani Ngcuka, told the media that no charges would be brought against Zuma despite the existence of prima facie evidence of corruption against him, a statement that prompted howsl of protest.

Zuma had been spared prosecution because of political interference, opposition parties said.

On the other hand, Zuma’s supporters and many independent commentators said he had been politically prejudiced, condemned in public without the possibility of rebutting the allegations.

Both sides said Ngcuka’s statement sounded the death knell for the NPA’s independence, though for different reasons.

Senior sources in the NPA said current authority boss Vusi Pikoli took his decision after receiving legal advice.

Pikoli was determined to be seen to be acting independently and based only on legal considerations, they said.

He and his staff seem determined to clear the pall of suspicion left hanging over the NPA.

Yesterday they told the media: “The NPA will continue to enforce the laws of the republic without fear, favour or prejudice.

“We shall also work with integrity and respect for human rights, respecting also the rights of those who may be in conflict with the law.”

The state versus Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma will be the acid test of that commitment.

With acknowledgements to Vukani Mde and the Business Day.