President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially appointed advocate Nompilo Kholeka Gcaleka as the new Public Protector of the Republic of South Africa as of today. This is in terms of section 193(4) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and on the recommendation of the National Assembly. Gcaleka who takes over from impeached advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane will serve a non-renewable seven-year term effective from today.

IN WITH THE NEW

After delays and postponements, she was voted in by 244 Members of Parliament last month. She has served as Deputy Public Protector since February 2020, before acting as head of the institution when Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane was suspended in June 2022. The National Assembly's process to nominate a new Public Protector began in May this year with the establishment of the Ad Hoc Committee to Nominate a Person for Appointment as Public Protector. "Of the 53 nominations, 32 did not meet the nomination requirements as set out in the advertisement and two candidates subsequently withdrew from the process. Eight candidates were shortlisted for interviews and underwent reference checks and verification of qualifications. Following the rigorous interview process, the committee met on 29 August to deliberate and agreed to recommend to the National Assembly advocate Gcaleka for appointment as Public Protector," read a statement from the presidency.

SUITABLE CANDIDATE

When the position became vacant, the presidency explained that the person suitable for the position must be a South African citizen, who is fit and proper to hold such office, and who is a Judge of a High Court or is admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having been admitted, practiced as an advocate or an attorney. "They could also be qualified to be admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having qualified, lectured in law at a university, or have specialised knowledge of or experience, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years, in the administration of justice, public administration or public finance." Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson to the President said, "The President wishes Advocate Gcaleka well in her position and trusts that she will serve the people of South Africa with honour and dedication."