By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Janet Love as a commissioner of the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa, the Presidency announced.
Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs recommended Love to the National Assembly to fill a vacancy at the IEC in September.
She was one of 12 candidates that were vying for the position.
She has served as the Vice Chairperson of the IEC since 2018.
The presidency said: “Having played a role in fighting for freedom as an anti-apartheid activist in the 1970s, Love returned to SA in 1990 and became involved in negotiating the country’s new constitution and establishing the first democratic government.
“She served as an MP for the ANC in the first democratic parliament from 1994 to 1999, and was a member of the 22-person constitutional committee of the Constitutional Assembly, the body responsible for steering the constitution-making process.”
“President Ramaphosa wishes Love well in her new capacity in the service of the nation and in an institution critical to the integrity and vibrancy of our democracy,” the presidency added.
Love, a seasoned politician and a stalwart in the fight against apartheid, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. Over the years, Love has made significant contributions to politics and activism.
Her career trajectory, marked by unwavering dedication and a commitment to justice, makes her well-suited for the position of the Electoral Commissioner.