Parliament confirms appointment of Gcaleka as new public protector

Gcaleka, who previously served as deputy and acting public protector, received 244 votes, while 12 MPs voted against her appointment.  

The 244 votes put her above the 60% she needed to become the new head of the Chapter 9 institution.

The ANC, IFP, and GOOD supported Gcaleka’s appointment, while the Freedom Front Plus, DA, and EFF were opposed.

She will succeed former public protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane, whose non-renewable seven-year term came to an end recently.

The National Assembly also impeached Mkhwebane after she was found guilty of misconduct and incompetence.

Gcaleka's candidacy was tainted by her report on the Phala Phala matter, which exonerated President Cyril Ramaphosa from any wrongdoing.

Ramaphosa now has to appoint her to the position.

During a sometimes heated debate on her appointment, DA MP Glynnis Breytenbach accused Gcaleka of not conducting herself with distinction while at the National Prosecuting Authority, including an apparent “intimate relationship” with her former boss Menzi Simelani.

"Other parties will argue here today that Kholeka Gcaleka is an outstanding candidate who has proven herself fit and able to perform the functions of the job required

"Precisely on what basis escapes me. Her very cosy relationship and some say intimate relationship with her boss led to speedy promotions and active support of his role in the capture of the NPA. One cannot leave her role in the Agliotti acquittal without her consideration either," she said.

Breytenbach was subsequently asked to leave the National Assembly after she refused to withdraw her comments, with the whole DA caucus walking out.

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