PRETORIA – The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services of South Africa wrapped up interviews for six upcoming vacancies at the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC).
According to Parliament of South Africa, Committee Chairperson Mr. Bulelani Magwanishe, 12 candidates were interviewed over two days.
Interview Process and Candidate Profiles
The process involved assessing 13 shortlisted candidates, though one was disqualified for failing to provide necessary fingerprints. Interviews included several current SAHRC commissioners. Among the candidates interviewed yesterday were Ms. Elspeth Nomahlubi Berlinda Khwinana, aspiring to be a judge, and Mr. Andrew Christoffel Nissen, a part-time commissioner for seven years. Prof. Bongani Christopher Majola, Mr. Jonas Ben Sibanyoni, Prof. Tshepo Madlingozi, and Adv. Andre Gaum were also interviewed.
Key Discussions and Issues
Mr. Nissen highlighted the challenges in balancing complaints handling and response times at the SAHRC. Prof. Madlingozi faced questions about his critical views on the Constitution, to which he responded by emphasizing the document’s capacity for critique and evolution. Adv. Gaum, leading the investigation into the July 2022 riots, discussed the complexities and delays encountered in releasing the final report.
Criteria and Expectations
The committee emphasized that candidates must be South African citizens, fit for the role, and committed to promoting human rights. The SAHRC, headquartered in Gauteng, focuses on promoting, protecting, and monitoring human rights in the country.
Final Steps in the Selection Process
Mr. Magwanishe informed candidates that the State Security Agency’s screening results are pending, which might lead to further clarifications. The committee aims to finalize its recommendations before the National Assembly’s year-end adjournment.