Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
27 July 2023 | 08:39am SAST
2 min read

Picture: PMG

Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka is in the running for the position of Public Protector. Having received the most nominations, she is one of 38 candidates nominated to fill the role. The current Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane’s term of office will expire on 14 October.  Mkhwebane was suspended by the President in June 2022, and Gcaleka has been the acting Public Protector since then.

A total of 53 nominations and 17 applications will be evaluated before a Public Protector will be appointed.

In an interview on Radio Islam International, Advocate Stephanie Fick shed light on the on the ongoing process to appoint a new Public Protector in South Africa.

The appointment process has not been without controversy, as some nominees expressed surprise at their nominations, being unaware of their candidacy. Despite this, the Committee has managed to whittle down the list of nominees to eight candidates who will undergo rigorous interviews.

The public has been closely watching the proceedings, as the Office of the Public Protector holds significant importance in safeguarding the interests of ordinary citizens and upholding ethical leadership. Advocate Fick voiced her concerns about the past suspended Public Protector, whose actions have eroded public trust and faith in the office.

Among the notable names included in the nominations were members of the legal fratenrity like Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, Judge Dunstan Mlambo, and Advocate Ken Becker. Advocate Fick praised the inclusion of individuals with integrity and exemplary track records, such as Judge Zondo, who chaired the state capture commission, and former Public Protector Tuli Madonsela, known for her transformative tenure.

Advocate Fick also acknowledged the importance of engaging the public in the decision-making process, calling for more transparent and inclusive methods of candidate selection. While Parliament did seek public input on the nominated candidates, Advocate Fick emphasised the need for a lengthier public engagement period to instil confidence and broaden democratic participation.

As the interview concluded, the urgency of the situation became evident. With the current Public Protector’s term set to expire on October 14th, time is of the essence. Parliament, currently in recess until mid-August, must conduct interviews promptly and thoughtfully. The aim is to have the process completed before the deadline, allowing the President to make the critical appointment.

The selection of the new Public Protector carries significant implications for South Africa’s governance and fight against corruption. As the nation eagerly awaits the outcome, all eyes are on Parliament and the Ad Hoc Committee to fulfil their duty in appointing a candidate who will prioritise the interests of the people and maintain the integrity of the esteemed office.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Muallima Annisa Essack here.