Thuli Madonsela among 21 nominees for public protector
Parliament's ad hoc committee tasked with recommending a candidate to become South Africa's next public protector has received 21 nominations so far, including incumbent Thuli Madonsela, it emerged on Wednesday.
"The nominations received include, among others, the current serving public protector, advocate Thuli Madonsela, as well as her deputy Kevin Malunga," said committee chairwoman Makhosi Khoza while briefing journalists in Parliament.
The Constitution however precludes Madonsela from serving a second term, as the public protector may only serve for a period of seven years. Madonsela's term of office expires in October.
Khoza did not disclose the names of the other nominees, only saying there were "interesting" nominations, adding that the committee would have a "difficult time to decide who is going to be shortlisted".
Members of the public have until Friday to submit their nominations for public protector and they should include a motivating letter, curriculum vitae, contact details, and a signed letter of acceptance from the nominee.
The names and details of those nominated would be published on the parliamentary website (www.parliament.gov.za) by the end of next week, said Khoza.
Prior to the shortlisting process, the credentials of nominees will be verified.
"The verification process is going to be twofold. We are going to have our own verification process which is going to be done by the team that is supporting the committee and basically that process is very critical, especially in answering the fit and proper aspect of the candidate public protector…but there will also be a vetting that will be done by the appropriate state security agency and that is done with all positions of this nature," said Khoza.
Applications and nominations for the position of public protector should reach the committee, through its secretary Vhonani Ramaano (3rd Floor, 90 Plein Street, Cape Town, 8000 / PO Box 15, Cape Town, 8001 or [email protected]) by 4pm on Friday. - ANA