Pretoria – The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs has determined that the process for appointing the Electoral Reform Consultation Panel should be reopened. This decision aims to expand the pool of candidates and include a broader range of expertise, particularly in areas of electoral representation.
The committee had previously received a list of nine nominees from the Minister of Home Affairs. While the shortlist was welcomed, it was found to lack diversity, particularly in representation of women and youth. The committee emphasized the importance of a broader skillset and experience to ensure the quality of the final process, noting deficiencies in the current shortlist.
The Electoral Reform Consultation Panel, as outlined in section 23 (9) (b) of the Electoral Amendment Act of 2023, is essential for examining broader electoral reforms. The committee stressed the significance of this task in shaping the future trajectory of the country’s democratic order, underscoring the urgency of addressing representation gaps.
Despite understanding the challenges in meeting the legislated deadline, the committee urged for improved administrative processes to ensure the panel’s effectiveness, particularly within the 12-month post-2024 elections timeframe.
Additionally, the committee advised the Minister to reconsider the stance of the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) on permitting its employees to join the panel, citing the potential benefit of their technical expertise.
Consequently, the committee has resolved that the Minister should reopen the nomination process and set clear deadlines to avoid delays. It also encouraged enhanced communication efforts to raise public awareness about the process and urged South Africans to participate actively in the nominations.
Separately, the committee welcomed the addition of 318 personnel to ports of entry, enhancing operational efficiency at the Border Management Authority (BMA) during the festive season. The BMA’s operational plan, addressing risk areas and ensuring readiness for the festive season, was commended by the committee. It called for effective implementation to facilitate smooth movement of people and goods, recognizing the thorough risk assessment conducted by the BMA.
In collaboration with local law enforcement, the BMA plans to manage traffic toward the border effectively and has extended the operating hours of various ports to process more people and goods.
The committee intends to monitor the implementation of this plan closely, expecting it to achieve the desired outcomes for efficient port operations and security during the festive period.