South Africa’s New Public Protector, Kholeka Gcaleka, Begins Term Amidst Controversy
Kholeka Gcaleka has officially assumed the role of South Africa’s Public Protector after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced her appointment. Starting her nonrenewable seven-year term on November 1, 2023, Gcaleka’s selection followed her endorsement by the National Assembly.
Previously serving as the Deputy Public Protector, Gcaleka took on the position of acting Public Protector in June 2022. In a statement, the Presidency expressed well wishes for Advocate Gcaleka, trusting that she will serve the people of South Africa with honor and dedication.
Gcaleka secured support for her appointment from various parties including the ANC, IFP, AIC, NFP, Good party, and Al Jamah-ah. However, the DA, EFF, UDM, PAC, and Cope opposed her nomination.
Critics of Gcaleka’s appointment voice concerns over her independence, particularly in light of her Phala Phala report, which cleared President Ramaphosa of any wrongdoing related to the theft of foreign currency at his farm in Limpopo. Additionally, her past affiliations as a card-carrying member of the ANC Youth League and an advisor to former minister Malusi Gigaba have raised questions regarding her impartiality.
Former Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane, who recently joined the EFF and was sworn in as a Member of Parliament, plans to meet with Gcaleka on the Justice and Correctional Services Portfolio Committee. Mkhwebane will be among the MPs responsible for overseeing the Office of the Public Protector.
Mkhwebane’s removal from office, following an impeachment inquiry, makes her the first public office-bearer in South Africa to face such consequences. Out of 400 MPs, 318 voted in favor of her impeachment, while 43 opposed it, and one abstained.
The appointment of Kholeka Gcaleka as South Africa’s new Public Protector has sparked controversy due to concerns surrounding her independence. As her term begins, there are mixed reactions and expectations regarding her ability to fulfill the role impartially and effectively.
