Question NW2530 to the Minister of Home Affairs
19 September 2023 - NW2530
Herron, Mr BN to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
(1)Whether he has appointed the Electoral Reform Consultation Panel in terms of Section 23 of the Electoral Amendment Act, Act 1 of 2023; if not, why not; if so, (a) on what date was the specified panel appointed, (b) what number of members constitute the panel, (c) who are the members of the panel and (d) what is the remuneration of each member; (2) whether the panel has commenced with their functions as outlined in Section 23 (2)(a) of the specified Act; if not, why not; if so, (a) on what date and (b) what are the relevant details; (3) whether he has found that the National Dialogue on Coalitions and the Declaration and proposed framework pre-empt the work of the panel; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, how does he intend to align the apparent parallel processes?
Reply:
(1)(a) I issued a Notice calling upon nominations for appointment of individuals to the Electoral Reform Consultation Panel (the “Panel”). Nominations have been received and the nominations are currently being analysed. As required, under section 23 of the Electoral Amendment Act, 2023 (Act No. 1 of 2023) (the “Amendment Act”), the Minister is enjoined to establish the Panel in consultation with the Independent Electoral Commission (the “IEC”). Further, as contemplated in section 23(8)(b) of the Amendment Act, the Minister must appoint nine (9) members to the Panel.
(1)(b) The Minister is still considering the nominations received. The Minister is required to consult with the IEC. It is also important to indicate that section 23(8)(b) of the Amendment Act enjoins the Minister to appoint members of the Panel after approval of the candidates by the National Assembly.
(1)(c) Section 23(14)(b) of the Amendment Act requires the Minister to determine the remunerations and allowances in consultation with the Minister of Finance. The Minister will consult with the Minister of Finance in this regard.
2. The Minister has not, as yet, established the Panel. The Minister is still considering the nominations received.
3. The work relating to Coalition Government is done through the Office of the President.
END