The Western Cape is one step closer to welcoming a new Commissioner for Children.
Benedicta van Minnen, chair of the Standing Committee on Premier and Constitutional Matters in the Western Cape Provincial Parliament, said the vetting process for candidates has now been completed.
“The vetting is now complete, and the committee will meet shortly to finalise the short list to be submitted to the premier.”
The post became vacant in May this year when the Western Cape’s first Commissioner for Children, Christina Nomdo, who had held the position since June 2020, stepped down citing “personal reasons”
In terms of the Western Cape Commissioner for Children Act, the role carries a five-year term, with the possibility of one additional term.
Van Minnen told People’s Post that 61 nominations were received. She said of these, 44 nominees accepted the nomination, while 16 did not respond and one declined.
Van Minnen added that nine candidates were shortlisted and interviewed in April. She outlined the recruitment process.
“The Child Monitors gave input into the process, but the appointment is regulated by provincial legislation and the interview and recommendation process falls into the purview of the Standing Committee who set the questions and performed the interviews.”
She said despite the position being vacant operations continue. “The office of the Commissioner for Children continues to operate and perform its mandate, and the new Commissioner will be setting their priorities once they are appointed.”
Van Minnen emphasised that the office operated independently. “They operate as an independent entity and thus although they report to the Provincial Parliament, their agenda is set by themselves.”
Patric Solomons, managing director for child right’s organisation Molo Songololo, said the appointment is “long overdue”.
“Molo Songololo hopes that the new Western Cape Commissioner for Children will be accessible to children and children’s organisations. And have the authority and commitment to engage the provincial government and legislature in the best interest of children as guided by the function and duties of the commissioner.”
According to Solomons, the commissioner should develop a clear five-year action plan in consultation with children, children’s organisation, key stakeholders in government and civil society.
“Engage the provincial legislature to improve its monitoring, financing and independence of the commissioner and commissioner’s office, and child participation policies and practices in the legislature.”
He said the commissioner should focus on advocating for an independent National Commissioner for Children and to expand same to other provinces.
