Five candidates shortlisted for Public Protector position
Five candidates are now vying for the position of Public Protector.
The parliamentary ad hoc committee tasked with finding a successor to Thuli Madonsela shortlisted five candidates on Thursday afternoon.
On the shortlist are Siraj Desai, Sharise Weiner, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, Muvhango Lukhaimane and Bongani Majola.
Most of the other candidates were quickly removed from the list, including current Deputy Public Protector Kevin Malunga.
During deliberations the DA's Phumzille Van Damme said Desai would not be a Public Protector for everyone after he made a comment about the "arrogance of the white middle class" during his interview last week.
She also said unlike incumbent Public Protector Thuli Madonsela, Desai had shown signs of not being able to handle the pressure.
"She didn't lose her temper, she didn't attack Members of Parliament, she was graceful, and that is something Judge Desai simply does not have."
The appointment is expected to be announced at the end of the month.
Committee chair Dr Makhosi Khoza encouraged members of the committee to familiarise themselves with the short-listed candidates.
"Do your homework so we can objectively engage and hopefully as this collective we are not going to vote on who is the next Public Protector," she said.
The committee will meet on 24 August to decide who will be Madonsela's successor.
Madonsela's seven-year term ends in October.