Interviews of candidates for Deputy Public Protector concluded

Parliament’s Justice and Constitutional Development Committee has interviewed the candidates for the position of Deputy Public Protector. Eight individuals were interviewed for the position that has been vacant for almost a year.

It became vacant when the current Public Protector Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka was appointed to head the office. This is the second time these interviews are conducted, after the process was abandoned in April this year.

It follows a legal opinion from Parliament that the presence of the former EFF MP and former Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane, indicated a reasonable apprehension of bias.

This, as the then EFF MP did not declare her relationship with two of the candidates.

Access to justice and the role that the office of the Public Protector (PP)plays to facilitate this, has been a golden thread through the interviews. Many of the candidates have impressive CVs that speak to their efforts to pursue social justice.

Some have had previous stints in the office of the PP and believe that despite tight budget constraints, more can be done to make people aware about how the Public Protector’s office can ensure justice.

“I am confident I am right candidate not only because of my experience as advocate with interest I public interest education, but also because of my passion for access to justice. I can disclose that in most of my cases I have done pro bono because of the realization that access to justice is very expensive in SA,” says Advocate Simon Tebeile.

“In addition to using technology, which I know the PP has done a lot with that, making office accessible by being able to lodge complaints via SMS, I do believe you still be able to go to communities directly. So, a very focused, rigorous outreach campaign is what one would contribute,” says Advocate Dinky Dube.

The position may ask for some bravery and tough decisions to be made.

“Because you are basically shaking feathers of people who don’t want to be touched but I believe I am firm and fair in decisions I make, as long as within confines of the law and rule of law must prevail,” says Advocate Siphokazi Moleshe.

“What you want to want to understand from me, you have background of African National Congress…do you want to get into that office to go and promote the African National Congress. And I have going into that office. And in no uncertain terms I have said I am coming in there to represent South Africans,” Dr. Chana Pilane-Majake said.

Members of the committee will deliberate once all the interviews are finalized on who they will recommend to the National Assembly for approval and later for appointment by the President.

The term of office is seven years, with the option for it to be renewed.