It’s time for a new Public Protector

AL JAMA-AH welcomes the nominations and new applications for the position of Public Protector

AL JAMA-AH Party has welcomed the 47 nominations and applications made for the position for South Africa’s new Public Protector.

The party’s leader and Member of Parliament Hon Ganief Hendricks, says he is quite surprised at the enormous interest in this “hot seat,” considering the drama around the current Public Protector. “It is surprising to see the interest in filling this hot seat; a position to take action against errant government officials in all three tiers of government to provide aggrieved members of the public the access to justice and to deliver a process of speedy and free services,” says Hendricks.

However, Hendricks expressed unhappiness with the impeachment provisions as determinations of the Public Protector can be taken to High Court. He strongly condemns the cost orders, suggesting that judges should learn from provisions contained in The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).

“The requirement that the PP must have legal experience is the first step towards conciliation and mediation followed by determinations as in arbitrations,” says Hendricks.