What next for Sheep? Shaun Abrahams says he “won’t be lost to the legal fraternity”

On Monday, the Constitutional Court ruled that Shaun Abrahams’ appointment to the position of National Director of Public Prosecutions was unlawful. While things don’t always move that fast when it comes to the law in South Africa, Abrahams was asked to pack up and go almost immediately. Now, he has taken the time to express his thanks.

Shaun Abrahams: Gone but maybe not forever

The man who became known as “Shaun the sheep” says he needs a breather and time with family after working in a rather tricky political period.

After multiple requests for media interviews, Abrahams decided to put out a statement to reflect on his time at the NPA.

“I will take some time out to spend with my family who has seen very little of me since taking up the position of National Director for Public Prosecutions (NDPP). I will always be a prosecutor at heart and will certainly miss being a prosecutor.”

Abrahams also explained that he would miss some of the top prosecutors that the NPA had to offer.

“I will miss those very committed members of the NPA who significantly contributed to the successes of the organisation during my time at the helm. I know it could not have been easy.”

He described his time in the NPA as “an honour and privilege”, even though it was during the  most volatile political period since the dawn of our young democracy.”

“As a career prosecutor, I, more than anyone, understood their challenges. I look forward to serving society and the country going forward in a capacity in which I could meaningfully and impactfully contribute.”

Soon after the Constitutional Court judgment, President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Dr Silas Ramaite as acting NDPP.

The NPA has confirmed that Abrahams will carry out a handover to Ramaite and is “engaging on matters where he has historical knowledge”.