Freedom Under Law launched an application to intervene as a friend of the court in a case brought by the former South African National Director of Public Prosecutions, Vusumzi Pikoli. Mr Pikoli challenged his suspension by then President Mbeki and subsequent dismissal by then President Motlanthe. On 24 June 2009 Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, an International Advisory Board member, signed the founding affidavit in support of Freedom Under Law’s application. At first the South African government partially opposed the application, but subsequently it withdrew its opposition. The application was expected to be heard on 20 August 2009.