PanSALB interviews day 2

Meeting report

The Chairperson apologised for the delay and explained that the digital platform had experienced some technical challenges but was now ready to start.

The Chairperson recounted that in December 2023, the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture had called for public nominations for individuals to serve on PanSALB. This call resulted in 134 nominees, comprising 81 males, 52 females, and one undeclared gender. After a selection process, 25 candidates were shortlisted for interviews so the Committee could evaluate them to make recommendations to the Minister. The PanSALB Act stipulated a minimum of 11 and a maximum of 15 board members. The Committee would recommend no more than 20 candidates. She noted the need for nominees to possess expertise in areas such as language, legal, human resources, and financial skills to help PanSALB achieve its strategic objectives of promoting multilingualism and social cohesion.

She welcomed all Members present either in person or virtually as well as the presence of various experts, including legal advisors, translators, researchers and Committee Secretary. She extended her best wishes to the Committee members conducting the interviews and expressed her hope that they would find the best candidates.

Candidate 1: Dr Godfrey Vulindlela Mona
When Dr Mona appeared on the video, albeit while driving and not clearly visible, the Chairperson remarked that she anticipated possible network issues due to his driving. The Chairperson congratulated Dr Mona on being shortlisted and encouraged him to prove he was the right candidate for the board. She invited Dr Mona to introduce himself in five minutes, reminding him that they already had his CV but wished to hear from him directly.

Dr Mona began his introduction but was asked by the Chairperson to speak louder as he was not fully audible. After he finished, the Chairperson thanked him and noted that he had used the allotted five minutes. She explained that they would monitor the time closely, giving each candidate five minutes for their initial introduction, which would be considered a bonus, leaving 40 minutes for questions.

Mr M Zondi (ANC) asked the first question, seeking Dr Mona's understanding of linguistic human rights and their link to linguistic diversity and multilingualism, and why it was important to argue for multilingualism in South Africa.

Ms R Adams (ANC) asked for his opinion on Section 6 of the Constitution, which acknowledges the challenges faced by indigenous languages and requires the state to take steps to promote these languages. She inquired about the measures he would implement to ensure compliance with this constitutional requirement.

Ms V van Dyk (DA) asked what legal and operational measures Dr Mona would put in place to ensure the government regulated and monitored the use of official languages effectively.

Ms V Malomane (ANC) referred to statistics showing a decline in the use of South African Sign Language and other indigenous languages, asking for his analysis and proposed measures to strengthen these languages if appointed to PanSALB.

Mr B Luthuli (IFP) questioned the role of language awareness campaigns in promoting multilingualism and the development of the Sign Language board.

Mr D Joseph (DA) inquired whether Dr Mona would focus on reviewing policies or implementing programs if he were appointed to the board.

After Dr Mona responded to all questions, the Chairperson thanked him, acknowledging his commitment despite the challenges of driving.

She wished him well and invited him to make any final remarks.

Candidate 2: Ms Naledi Maponopono
The Chairperson welcomed Ms Naledi Maponopono, instructing her to proceed despite network challenges she might face and she could turn off her video camera if necessary. She introduced the setting, mentioning that the candidate was now in Parliament, alongside Portfolio Committee members and various parliamentary staff, including interpreters, researchers and content advisors.

The Chairperson asked her to introduce herself, although her CV was already available to the Committee, and this should not exceed five minutes, to ensure ample time for questions.

Mr Zondi asked about the candidate's understanding of linguistic human rights, their connection to linguistic diversity and multilingualism, and the importance of advocating for multilingualism in South Africa.

Ms Adams referenced Section 6(2) of the Constitution, which acknowledges the challenges faced by indigenous languages and the state's responsibility to take practical steps to support these languages. She asked for the candidate's opinion on this section and the measures she would implement to ensure compliance at all government levels.

Ms Van Dyk asked how the candidate would implement Section 6(4) of the Constitution, which empowers the government to regulate and monitor the use of official languages, ensuring they are treated equitably and enjoy parity of esteem. She inquired about the legal and operational measures she would put in place.

Ms Malomane queried the candidate about the key arguments of the National Language Policy Framework and the Use of Official Languages Act No 12 of 2012. She asked if the candidate had identified any gaps between the policy and its implementation.

Mr Luthuli asked about the role of language awareness campaigns in promoting multilingualism and the South African Sign Language charter.

The Chairperson thanked the candidate and asked if Members had additional questions.

The Chairperson mentioned that a Member, who had joined virtually, had a comment.

Mr Mthethwa commended the candidate for her achievements at a young age and expressed hope for the country's future, wishing her success in her bid to join PanSALB.

The Chairperson acknowledged Mr Mthethwa's commendation, noting the encouragement it provided and the recognition of the candidate's qualities by the Members. The candidate was thanked for her time and interest and invited to make final remarks.

Candidate 3: Ms Bontle Lorato Rasebopye
The Chairperson mentioned that they were now coming to a sign language candidate and expressed contentment about this development. She welcomed Ms Rasebopye, informing her that she had 45 minutes to answer the questions.

Mr Zondi posed the first question about her understanding of linguistic human rights, their connection to linguistic diversity, and the importance of advocating for multilingualism in South Africa.

The parliamentary sign language interpreter interjected, requesting to see the face of the Member while asking the question. Mr Zondi repeated his question.

Ms Adams asked about Section 6(2) of the Constitution, which addresses the challenges faced by indigenous languages and the state's obligation to support these languages. She asked for the candidate's opinion on this section and the measures she would implement to ensure compliance at all government levels.

Ms Van Dyk asked how the candidate would implement Section 6(4) of the Constitution, which empowers the government to regulate and monitor the use of official languages to ensure they are treated equitably and enjoy parity of esteem. She inquired about the legal and operational measures she would put in place.

Ms Malomane asked about the key arguments of the National Language Policy Framework and the Use of Official Languages Act No. 12 of 2012, and whether the candidate had identified any gaps between the policy and its implementation.

Mr Luthuli asked about the role of language awareness campaigns in promoting multilingualism and the South African Sign Language charter.

The Chairperson thanked the candidate, expressing appreciation for her participation and hoping for the best outcome. She invited the candidate to make final remarks and noted that the proposal would be forwarded to the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

Candidate 4: Mr Kgomotso Manfred Molebaloa
The Chairperson acknowledged the candidate's effort to join the interview on a Saturday and introduced the Committee members who would be asking questions, along with the secretariat, researchers and content advisors. She emphasized the seriousness of the process and asked the candidate to use five minutes to introduce himself.

Mr Zondi inquired about the candidate's understanding of linguistic human rights, their connection to linguistic diversity, and the importance of advocating for multilingualism in South Africa. The candidate requested further clarity, and Mr Zondi reiterated his question.

Ms Adams asked about Section 6 of the Constitution, which addresses the challenges faced by indigenous languages and the state's responsibility to support these languages. She inquired about the candidate's opinion on this section and the measures he would implement to ensure compliance at all government levels.

Mr Joseph asked about Section 6(4) of the Constitution, which empowers the government to regulate and monitor the use of official languages to ensure they enjoy parity of esteem and are treated equitably. He inquired about the legal and operational measures the candidate would put in place.

The Chairperson reminded the candidate of the 45-minute time limit and asked him to round up his answers as there were still more questions to come.

Ms Malomane referred to the candidate’s CV, noting his experience in drafting language policies and attending a national language policy framework course. She asked about the key arguments of the National Language Policy Framework and the Use of Official Languages Act No 12 of 2012, and if the candidate had identified any gaps between the policy and its implementation.

Mr Luthuli asked about the role of language awareness campaigns in promoting multilingualism and developing the South African Sign Language charter.

The Chairperson thanked the candidate and invited Members to ask further questions. She explained that the Committee would forward the results of the interviews to the Department, which would select no more than 15 board members. She invited the candidate to say his final words to the Committee.

Candidate 5: Adv Matsobane Gabriel Mello
There were initial technical difficulties preventing the candidate from being seen. The Chairperson insisted on resolving the technical problems. Eventually, the candidate appeared on screen. The Chairperson provided instructions on the interview format and asked the candidate to introduce himself.

Ms Adams asked the candidate about the importance of having a member with legal expertise on the Board and what role he would play if appointed.

Ms D Sibiya (ANC) followed with a question on Section 6(2) of the Constitution, which addresses the challenges faced by indigenous languages. She asked for the candidate's opinion on this section and what measures he would implement to ensure compliance by the state, including provinces and municipalities.

Mr Joseph focused on Section 6(4) of the Constitution. He inquired about the legal and operational measures that the candidate would put in place to ensure that official languages enjoy parity and are treated equitably.

The Chairperson expressed concern when the candidate received a phone call mid interview. She emphasized the importance of maintaining uninterrupted communication during the interview process.

Mr Zondi posed a question on recent language statistics released by Statistics South Africa, highlighting concerns raised by PanSALB about the decline in South African Sign Language and other indigenous languages. He asked the candidate to provide his analysis of the situation and propose measures to address this he would implement if appointed.

Ms Malomane asked about risk management, referencing the candidate's experience on risk and audit committees. She inquired about the legal measures he would put in place to prevent fraud and corruption at PanSALB.

Ms Malomane sought clarification from the candidate on aspects of the National Language Policy Framework and gaps in language policy implementation in line with the Official Languages Act.

The Chairperson thanked the candidate and invited him to share any final thoughts or comments before concluding the interview process.

Candidate 6: Adv Nontutuzelo Njeza
The Chairperson welcomed Adv Njeza and introduced the Committee members. She asked that the candidate take only five minutes to introduce herself, considering her CV had been already submitted. The Chairperson noted that she could switch off her camera if necessary to avoid technical issues during the interview.

Ms Adams asked the candidate to explain why PanSALB should have a member with legal expertise and what role she would play if appointed.

Ms Sibiya raised concern about Section 6(2) of the Constitution, which addresses the challenges facing indigenous languages and the state's responsibility to promote and protect them. She asked for the candidate's opinion on this section and what measures she would propose to ensure compliance by the state, provinces, and municipalities.

Mr Joseph noted Section 6(4) of the Constitution, which empowers the government to regulate and monitor the use of official languages to ensure parity and equitable treatment. He asked the candidate about the legal and operational measures she would implement to enforce this section effectively.

Mr Zondi addressed the recent language statistics released by Statistics South Africa, focusing on the decline of South African Sign Language and other indigenous languages. He asked the candidate to provide her analysis of the situation and suggest measures she would implement if appointed to PanSALB to promote indigenous languages.

Ms Malomane followed with a question on risk management, asking the candidate about the legal systems she would implement to prevent fraud and corruption within PanSALB, given her experience in risk management.

The Chairperson thanked her for participating in the interview and invited any final remarks before concluding the session.

Candidate 7: Adv Toto Jeremiah Fiduli
The Chairperson welcomed Adv Fiduli and introduced the Committee members. She requested he introduce himself within five minutes, considering that the Committee already had his CV.

The Chairperson thanked him for his concise introduction and remarked on his skills in cross-questioning, akin to his courtroom prowess.

Ms Adams asked the candidate to explain why PanSALB should include a member with legal expertise and what role he would undertake at PanSALB if appointed.

Addressing the challenges faced by indigenous languages, Ms Sibiya questioned the candidate on Section 6(2) of the Constitution and the measures the state should take to enhance the status and usage of indigenous languages.

Mr Joseph referred to Section 6(4) of the Constitution, focusing on government's role in regulating and monitoring official languages to ensure parity and equitable treatment. He asked the candidate about the legal and operational measures he would propose to enforce this section effectively.

Mr Zondi discussed the recent language statistics released by Statistics South Africa, highlighting concerns over the decline of South African Sign Language and other indigenous languages. He sought the candidate's analysis of the situation and the measures he would implement at PanSALB to support indigenous languages.

Ms Malomane asked about the candidate's experience in risk management, asking him about the legal systems he would implement to prevent fraud and corruption within PanSALB.

The Chairperson invited further questions from Committee members and concluded by thanking the candidate for his participation. She expressed the Committee's best wishes and asked for patience while awaiting the Committee recommendations and the appointments decision by the Ministry. She gave the candidate an opportunity to share concluding remarks.

Candidate 8: Ms Lesle Jansen
The Chairperson introduced Ms Jansen and noted the presence of Committee members, as well as administrative staff and advisors, before inviting the candidate to introduce herself.

Ms Adams asked the candidate to explain why the PanSALB should have a member with legal expertise and what role she would play at PanSALB if appointed.

Ms Sibiya followed with a question on Section 6(2) of the Constitution, on the challenges faced by indigenous languages and the measures the candidate would implement to enhance their status and usage.

Mr Joseph noted Section 6(4) of the Constitution which focused on regulatory measures for official languages to ensure parity and equitable treatment, and asked the candidate about the legal and operational steps she would propose to ensure this.

Mr Zondi's question revolved around the recent language statistics and the decline in South African Sign Language and other languages. He inquired about the candidate's analysis of the situation and the measures she would implement at PanSALB to support indigenous languages.

During her response, the candidate clarified that she is an admitted attorney, not a practicing one, correcting an earlier reference.

Ms Malomane questioned the candidate on the legal systems she would implement to prevent fraud and corruption within PanSALB, considering her legal background.

The Chairperson concluded by asking the Committee if there were any further questions for the candidate. She thanked the candidate for her participation.

Candidate 9: Ms Clarinda Elizabeth Simpson
The Chairperson introduced the Committee members and outlined the interview format, allowing Ms Simpson five minutes for her introduction and stating that the entire interview would last 45 minutes.

Ms van Dyk's question focused on the importance of having a board member with financial management expertise at PanSALB. She asked the candidate to elaborate on what role she would play in its financial operations.

Mr Luthuli asked the candidate about her understanding of the Public Finance Management Act and how she would ensure its rigorous application within PanSALB.

During the candidate's response, the Chairperson intervened to remind her of the time constraints and the remaining questions. She acknowledged the candidate's passionate response but stressed the importance of covering all topics within the allocated time.

Ms Sibiya posed a question on the candidate's understanding of internal audit and enterprise risk management, followed by how she would implement these practices at PanSALB to ensure effective governance.

Mr Zondi's question centered on the measures the candidate would implement to prevent fraud and corruption within PanSALB if she were appointed to the Board.

Mr Joseph inquired about the candidate's approach to ensuring that PanSALB fulfills its mandate of actively promoting and developing previously marginalized languages in South Africa.

The Chairperson asked if Members wished to pose additional questions within the remaining interview duration.

Mr Joseph asked how government can improve on consequence management and how it can be used to improve good governance.

Ms Malomane raised a question about problem-solving, asking how the candidate would handle a written complaint on language violation if appointed to the Board.

The Chairperson thanked the candidate for her participation. She appreciated the candidate's passion and thorough responses, inviting any final remarks or comments from her before concluding the interview.

Candidate 10: Ms Mulalo Jane Dzivhani
The Chairperson welcomed Ms Dzivhani on behalf of the Committee. She gave her five minutes to introduce herself, with 45 minutes allocated for answering questions by Committee members. The Chairperson asked the candidate to switch off her video.

Ms van Dyk asked the candidate to explain the importance of having a board member with financial management expertise and what role she would play in the financial operations if appointed.

Mr Luthuli queried the candidate's understanding of the Public Finance Management Act and how she would ensure its rigorous application at the organization.

Ms Sibiya asked about the candidate's comprehension of internal audit and enterprise risk management and how she would implement these practices at PanSALB.

Mr Zondi inquired what measures the candidate would take to prevent fraud and corruption at PanSALB if appointed.

Mr Joseph questioned how she would ensure that PanSALB actively promotes and develops previously marginalized languages.

The Chairperson invited any follow-up questions from the Members. She expressed gratitude to the candidate for applying. She mentioned that the scores would be compiled and communicated to the Committee by the IT department. The Chairperson offered the candidate an opportunity to address the Committee before concluding the interview.

Candidate 11: Ms Maseje Felicia Nchabaleng
The Chairperson greeted Ms Nchabaleng and acknowledged her presence on the video call. She introduced the Committee members and noted the presence of Parliament support staff and legal experts overseeing the process. Ms Nchabaleng was given five minutes to introduce herself, summarizing her qualifications from the documents provided.

Ms van Dyk asked the candidate to explain the importance of having a board member with financial management expertise and what role she would play in the financial operations, if appointed.

Mr Luthuli queried the candidate's understanding of the Public Finance Management Act and how she would ensure its application at PanSALB.

Ms Sibiya questioned the candidate about her understanding of internal audit and enterprise risk management.

Mr Zondi asked what measures the candidate would implement to prevent fraud and corruption within PanSALB, if appointed.

Mr Joseph inquired how the candidate would ensure that PanSALB fulfills its mandate of promoting the development of previously marginalized languages in South Africa.

The Chairperson asked if there were follow-up questions or additional queries. She informed the candidate that the questioning was complete and explained that the Committee's role now was to score the candidates. The results would be communicated by the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture to the successful candidates out of the 25 shortlisted. She invited the candidate to make final remarks before concluding the interview and wished her luck.

The candidate expressed gratitude for the opportunity and requested to elaborate further on the topic of risk management since she still had time. The Chairperson granted her permission to proceed.

The Chairperson concluded the interview and released the candidate. Addressing the Members, she reflected on the role of MPs in the digital age and encouraged respectful conduct knowing they were being monitored. She suggested informal discussions during lunch and sought confirmation from Members.

The Chairperson adjourned the meeting, thanking everyone involved, including the interpreters and administrators.