Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy has released the list of 26 candidates that it has shortlisted for interviews, to fill vacancies on the board of the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR). Four of these were candidates for the community representative and 22 were candidates for the labour representative.

“The [NNR] is a regulatory authority established as a juristic person under Section 3 of the Nuclear Regulator Act, 1999,” explained the committee. “The NNR’s mandate is to regulate, monitor and enforce safety standards to achieve safe operating conditions, prevent nuclear accidents and mitigate the consequences of such accidents. This ensures the protection of workers, the public, property and the environment against the potential harmful effects of ionizing radiation and radioactive materials.”

The process of selecting new board members was started last year, when Electricity and Energy Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa issued a call for nominations, to ensure both community and labour representation on the board. This was in line with Section 8(7)(a) of the Nuclear Regulator Act.

A total of 120 applications were received by the committee. From these, the committee selected its two shortlists.

The four candidates for the community representative were Aphelele Tomsana, Dr Mosebetsi Leotlela, Duimpie Dube and Ernest Tladi.

The 22 candidates for labour representative were Joseph Hlabirwa Mokwena, Ursula Nomfuneko Ntsubane, Zandile Matshaya, Dr Sepolo Michael Malebese, Dr Serrah Nomcebo Mhlanga, Mpumelelo Tsuela, Kanya Mbata, Yolanda Linda Nkgodi (Maseko), Palesa Naomi Shai, Dr David Lefutso, Grant Son, Tebogo Joyce Mabeleng, Mudanalwo Freddy Ndou, Prof (Dr Adv) Vuyo Lungile Ntsangane Peach, Nhlanhleni Lucky Ngidi, Attwell Sibusiso Makhanya, Kanyane Priesta Mhlongo, Dr Nandi Malumbazo, Dr Elsie Pulane Molokwane, Dr Margaret Mkhosi-Motsaathebe, Lean Mayana Makhubele and Zakhele Madela.

The CVs of all the candidates would be published on Parliament’s website. The committee has invited members of civil society and the public in general to share their views on the candidates. Such comments could be submitted via an online form on Parliament’s website. The closing date for such inputs is May 29.

“The public commentary is crucial as it will contribute to determining the next Board members,” stressed the committee. “By allowing civil society and the public at large to comment and engage with the shortlisted candidates, the committee aims to ensure transparency and inclusivity throughout the selection process.”