By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The search is on for the Deputy Public Protector after Parliament announced that applications and nominations for the position were now open and the deadline is February 16.
Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services has called for applications and nominations for the position, which was previously held by the current Public Protector Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka.
Gcaleka succeeded Busisiwe Mkhwebane who was impeached by Parliament in September last year.
The committee, which will lead the recruitment process, said the person recommended for appointment as deputy public protector had to be a South African citizen, who was fit and proper.
It added that the person had to have been admitted as an advocate or an attorney, with at least 10 years’ experience practicing as an advocate or an attorney.
The person can also have at least ten years’ experience in lecturing law at a university. The position also comes with a handsome annual salary of R1.9 million.
Committee chairperson Bulelani Magwanishe said the deputy will be appointed by the president on the recommendation of the National Assembly.
Magwanishe indicated that a list of all the nominations and applications received will be published to allow the public to comment on the suitability of candidates before the committee starts its shortlisting process.
The shortlisted candidates will be subjected to a screening process by the State Security Agency (SSA) as previously done when Parliament looked for a new Public Protector in 2023.
Unlike the Public Protector, the deputy may at the end of his or her term be reappointed for one additional term. The appointment is for a period of seven years.
Nominations or applications can be sent to: Vhonani Ramaano at Dppvacancy@parliament.gov.za by 4pm on 16 February while further enquiries can be addressed to Ramaano on 083 709 8427.