Statement

Dr N Barney Pityana, Chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission today (Monday, 1 October), made a formal announcement to Commissioners and senior management staff, of his intention to resign as a member of the Commission with effect from 31 December 2001. Dr Pityana will take up appointment as Principal and Vice Chancellor of the University of South Africa of the University of South Africa on 1 January 2001.

By letter dated 28 September addressed to the Secretary to Parliament, Dr Pityana gave notice of his intention to resign as a member of the Commission. The Human Rights Commission Act, 1994 requires any member of the Commission to "submit at least three month's written notice" to Parliament of his intention to resign from the Commission. A shorter period will only be allowed by resolution of parliament. Dr Pityana has been a member and Chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission since 1 October 1995. The terms of office of the current members of the Commission expire simultaneously on 30 September 2002.

The interim Constitution, 1993, which remains operative in this matter, governs the election of the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Commission. It states that a Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Commission shall " as often as it becomes necessary be elected by the members of the Commission from among their number." In the light of that provision, members of the Commission have set a process in place for the nomination of a Chairperson to succeed Dr Pityana. The nominations will be put to the full plenary meeting of the South African Human Rights Commission scheduled to take place on 14-15 November 2001.

The Commission is committed to ensure a smooth transition from the leadership of Dr Pityana to any other member who will be elected by her or his colleagues and undertakes to give her/him full support.

Ms Phumla Mthala Media Liaison officer
South African Human Rights Commission
Tel: (011) 484 8300
1 October 2001