Eight candidates shortlisted for Public Protector post

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Cape Town - The Ad Hoc Committee, set up by Parliament to appoint a new Public Protector, has shortlisted eight candidates.

Committee Chairperson Tshililo Masutha told BuaNews all parties in the committee had unanimously agreed on who to shortlist when it met on Tuesday.

The committee will conduct interviews next Tuesday and Wednesday and then report back on the agreed candidate to the National Assembly on Thursday for recommendation to the President.

Advocate Masutha said the committee was working speedily so that there would be a proper hand-over by the current Public Protector, Lawrence Mushwana, to the incumbent.

Mushwana's seven-year term will come to an end on 15 October and is not renewable.

In accordance with the provisions of the Public Protector Act and the Constitution, the National Assembly may recommend a person for appointment by the President for a non-renewable term of seven years.

The nominee must be a South African citizen who is fit to hold the office of the public protector and must comply with the requirements of the Public Protector Act.

The person must be suitably qualified and experienced with a reputation for honesty and integrity.

He or she must also be impartial and must exercise his or her powers without fear, favour or prejudice thus preserving the Office's independence. -