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The National Assembly (NA) has, during its sitting today, approved a motion to recommend three candidates for appointment as Commissioners of the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC). The nominees are Ms Joyce Pitso, Judge Dhana Pillay and Mr Mosotho Moepya

This recommendation to the President is made in accordance with Section 6(2)(d) of the Electoral Commission Act and follows a selection process presided over by the Chief Justice as mandated by Section 6(3) of the Act.

Upon appointment by the President, the three nominees will fill vacancies that will arise on Tuesday, 4 November, when the terms of office of the current Chairperson and two other commissioners expire.

The appointment process for IEC Commissioners is designed to ensure transparency and integrity. When a vacancy arises on the Commission, the Judicial Services Commission, under the leadership of the Chief Justice, publicly calls for nominations. An independent panel, chaired by the Chief Justice and comprising representatives from the Human Rights Commission, the Commission for Gender Equality and the Public Protector, considers all applications received. The panel is responsible for shortlisting, interviewing and submitting a list of no fewer than eight suitable candidates to the National Assembly.

Thereafter, the National Assembly, through the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, conducts its own rigorous deliberations on the shortlist before the NA approves the final nominees to be recommended to the President for appointment.

This multi-faceted and consultative process underscores Parliament’s commitment to appointing individuals of the highest calibre, ensuring the continued independence, competence and public trust in the Electoral Commission and the integrity of South Africa’s democracy.
 

Issued by Parliament of South Africa