Nominations are open for the next public protector. The parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee to Nominate a Person for Appointment as Public Protector invites members of the public and organisations to nominate suitable candidates for appointment to this crucial post. Applications will also be accepted.
The deadline is 7 July 2023 at 16h00.
The Public Protector is a state institution supporting constitutional democracy, established in terms of Chapter 9 of the Constitution. The institutions has the power to investigate any conduct in state affairs, or in the public administration in any sphere of government, that is alleged or suspected to be improper or to result in any impropriety or prejudice, to report on that conduct and take appropriate remedial action. In addition, the Public Protector has other powers and functions prescribed by national legislation.
The public protector is appointed by the president, on the recommendation of the National Assembly, for a non-renewable term of seven years. The term of the incumbent, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, although suspended since June 2022, officially ends in October 2023
Criteria
The person recommended for appointment as public protector must be a South African citizen, who is fit and proper to hold such office, and who:
- is a Judge of a High Court; or
- is admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having been so admitted, practiced as an advocate or an attorney; or
- is qualified to be admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having so qualified, lectured in law at a university; or
- has specialised knowledge of or experience, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years, in the administration of justice, public administration or public finance; or
- has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years, been a Member of Parliament; or
- has acquired any combination of experience mentioned in paragraphs (b) to (e), for a cumulative period of at least 10 years.
Applications and nominations must contain the full name, address/e-mail address, and contact details of the person or organisation making the nomination, a signed acceptance of the nomination by the nominee, and a curriculum vitae (CV) providing the nominee’s full name, ID number and gender, contact details, including physical address, telephone/cell phone number and e-mail address.
Relevant previous work experience (including relevant dates and organisations concerned) and academic qualifications should also be included.
As part of the selection process, all shortlisted candidates will be subjected to processes including suitability screening, reference checks, and qualifications verification, and will be expected to complete a questionnaire.
Contact details
Applications and nominations must reach committee secretary Mr Vhonani Ramaano by no later than 7 July 2023 at 16h00.
Direct your equiries to Mr V Ramaano, tel: -021 403 3820, cell: 083 709 8427, e-mail: Pprotector@parliament.gov.za.
Media statement issued by Cyril Xaba, the chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee to Nominate a Person for Appointment as Public Protector,
