The recruitment process in the search for a successor to the Western Cape’s first Children’s Commissioner is well underway.
Christina Nomdo’s tenure as commissioner concluded last month following her announcement late last year that she would not pursue a second term for “personal reasons.”
According to the Western Cape Commissioner for Children Act, the incumbent holds the position for a five-year term and is eligible for only one additional term.
As the curtain comes down on Child Protection Week and in the run-up to Youth Day, all eyes will be on the new commissioner, whose key role is to protect and promote the rights, needs and interests of children in the province by working with the departments of Education, Health and Social Development as well as Cultural Affairs and Sport.
Benedicta van Minnen, chair of the Standing Committee on Premier and Constitutional Matters in the Western Cape Provincial Parliament, said the committee had completed the nomination, shortlisting and interview stages.
According to Van Minnen, 61 nominations were received.
Of these, 44 nominees accepted the nomination, 16 did not respond and one declined.
“Nine candidates were shortlisted and interviewed on 15 and 16 April. The committee evaluated the candidates based on interview scores and cross-member consensus.”
She added that the final recommendation for the appointment is pending the vetting results outcome and will be discussed at a meeting once the process has been concluded.
“The Premier must either appoint the recommended candidate within 21 days of receiving the committee’s report or refer the matter back to Parliament if there are concerns.”
Van Minnen said the position will remain vacant temporarily until the new commissioner is appointed. “After conducting interviews in mid-April (this year), the committee is nearing the final stages. Once the vetting report is received the committee will consider and adopt the final report.”
She explained that following the adoption of the report it will be tabled in Provincial Parliament for approval.
“If approved, the recommendation will be submitted to the Premier. The Premier has 21 days to appoint the recommended candidate or refer the matter back with reasons.”
According to Van Minnen, the recruitment process has been thorough and inclusive, involving public participation, child monitors’ input, and transparent interviews.
“Background checks (criminal, credit, and qualification verifications) were conducted on shortlisted candidates. The committee updated the scoring framework to align with the Act, emphasising competencies, professional experience, and academic record.”
Lucinda Evans, founder of Philisa Abafazi Bethu, a non-profit organisation (NPO), working with abused women and vulnerable children in Steenberg, said the new commissioner should prioritise children’s rights.
“I have nothing against the past commissioner. But what the country needed in the children’s commissioner and what the country got for the last five years is an indictment to the children.
“We want this position to be the forerunners of changing policy, changing the children’s act for the betterment of the children,” she said.
