The Labour Court prohibited to the Minister of Higher Education, Buti Manamela, restart the recruitment process for the position of CEO of the National Skills Fund (NSF).
The court found that the minister’s directive seemed to exceed his legal powers, with the act assigning the power of appointment to the director general of the department.
Dr. Khathutshelo Sirovha was unanimously recommended for this position following a recruitment process involving 93 candidates. The interim injunction will remain in effect until the final decision on a separate motion challenging the legality of the Minister Ideal Direction.
The South African Youth Council (SAYEC) welcomed the judgement of the Labour Court, stating that this decision strengthens the rule of law and ensures that public institutions operate within the framework of their legally prescribed powers.
The organisation calls on Manamela to take the necessary legal steps to finalize the appointment of Dr. Khathutshelo Sirovha, who was unanimously recommended for this position.
SAYEC warned that further delays could result in costly litigation, while prolonging uncertainty within the fund and affecting its ability to support skills development.