Inside South Africa’s IEC shake-up: eight candidates tipped for key positions
Chief Justice Mandisa Maya
A panel chaired by Chief Justice Mandisa Maya has submitted eight names to the National Assembly to fill three upcoming vacancies at the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC).
Among those recommended are the current chairperson, Mosotho Moepya, and Commissioner Judge Dhaya Pillay, whose terms are set to end on 4 November 2025, alongside Commissioner Masuku.
The selection process was initiated after National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza formally requested the Chief Justice to convene the panel. By law, the Electoral Commission Act requires that such a panel include representatives
from the Human Rights Commission, the Commission for Gender Equality, and the Public Protector’s Office.
Following public calls for nominations and a round of interviews held on July 21 and 22, the panel unanimously agreed on eight recommended candidates.
List of Recommended Candidates
- Judge Dhaya Pillay
- Mosotho Moepya
- Judge Mjabuliseni Madondo
- Advocate Geraldene Chaplog-Louw
- Joyce Pitso
- Granville Abraham
- Robert Martin
- Nkosikhulule Nyembezi
In terms of the legislation, Parliament must now consider the recommendations, noting that at least one of the five commissioners must be a judge.
The National Assembly committee will deliberate on the shortlist before forwarding final appointments for approval.