THE Parliamentary Committee on Small Business Development, chaired by the ANC’s Christopher Malematja, unveiled the shortlist of eight candidates vying for the role of Ombud at the newly established Office of the Small Enterprise Ombud Service.

This critical position, mandated by the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act, will be tasked with adjudicating and resolving complaints related to small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in a procedurally fair manner.

The recruitment process, which attracted no less than 25 applications, has now entered its final stages, with the committee preparing to interview the shortlisted candidates later this month.

The meeting, which was live-streamed, sparked controversy as committee members publicly discussed candidates who had not yet been informed of their shortlisting. This raised concerns about transparency and confidentiality with the Committee Content Advisor, Sibusiso Gumede, who said: “The meeting is streaming live, but the committee is publicly discussing candidates who have not yet been informed of the shortlist.”

The committee secretary, King Kunene, outlined the stringent criteria for shortlisting, emphasising that all candidates must possess a legal background and relevant experience in SMMEs, trade, industry, finance, and the economy.

Section 17(f) of the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act stipulates that the Minister must appoint an Ombudsperson within 90 days of a vacancy. “All the shortlisted candidates have legal training,” Gumede confirmed, adding that the candidate profiles would determine whether they also had the requisite experience.

Of the 25 applications received, only one candidate had nominated themselves, but this individual did not make the shortlist. The remaining candidates were nominated by third parties, a requirement clearly outlined in the advertisement for the position. Gumede assured members that the secretariat was working to obtain the names of the nominators for transparency.

The eight shortlisted candidates, whose nominations and qualifications were presented during the meeting, are:

Advocate Sonwabile Mancotywa, nominated by Advocate Jabulani Bembe
Yolanda Maseko, nominated by Thabang Lerry Mohlaonyane
Lucky Rebotapi, nominated by Advocate Dinkie Dube
Nandi Mheshe (nomination details pending)
Yvonne Memani, nominated by Nelisiwe Moerane
Lufuno Nevondwe (nomination details pending)
Sinoxolo Vena, nominated by Lisolomzi Fawule
Sinenhlanhla Mthembu, nominated by Nde Peabo Malinga

The committee reached a consensus to conduct all eight interviews in one day, physically in Parliament, without the option of a hybrid system. The ANC’s Lindelwa Sapo supported this approach, saying: “I suggest not opening up the option of a hybrid interview and sticking only to physical interviews, as I fear it may open a can of worms.”

However, the EFF’s Babalwa Mathulelwa advocated for flexibility, suggesting that candidates unable to attend in person should be allowed virtual interviews. “Candidates must also not be constrained in language of response or engagement,” she added, highlighting the importance of inclusivity.

The DA’s Hendrik Krüger proposed conducting the interviews on Wednesday, March 26, a suggestion supported by Sapo and others. Malematja, the acting chairperson, emphasised the need for strict adherence to the process, saying: “If the decision was to invite candidates to Parliament, then candidates must come to Parliament.”

The livestreaming of the meeting sparked a debate about the balance between transparency and confidentiality. Committee researcher Nwabisa Mbelekane raised concerns about some candidates lacking relevant experience despite having the necessary qualifications. However, Malematja reiterated that the legal background requirement was the primary criterion, and the interview process would further assess candidates’ suitability.

Gumede stressed the importance of maintaining confidentiality while ensuring transparency. “This is a confidential process, although transparency must be maintained,” he said. He also reminded members that each would have the opportunity to pose scoring questions during the interviews, ensuring a thorough evaluation of each candidate.

The committee resolved to verify the qualifications of the shortlisted candidates and finalise the interview questions. The interviews are scheduled for March 26, with the possibility of extending into the afternoon if necessary.

The acting chairperson thanked members for their contributions, saying: “The committee will ensure its pursuit of transparency, and it will not jeopardise the process but will protect persons where necessary.”

As the recruitment process moves forward, the stakes remain high. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of SMMEs in South Africa, ensuring fair adjudication of disputes and fostering a conducive environment for small business growth.

The committee’s commitment to a rigorous and transparent process underscores the importance of this appointment, setting a precedent for future recruitment efforts in the public sector.

ombud appointment

Shortlist revealed for SMME Ombud candidates