Parliament, 17 March 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development will tomorrow, Wednesday, 18 March 2026, reconvene to reconsider its report on the appointment of the Small Enterprise Ombudsperson.
The committee previously considered the report on 25 April 2025, after which it was tabled before the National Assembly on 5 June 2025. While the report was not subjected to debate in the House, declarations of vote were made on behalf of several political parties.
Following these declarations, the Deputy Chief Whip of the largest party moved that the report be referred back to the committee for further consideration and reporting. In its initial report, the committee identified four candidates, out of eight shortlisted applicants, who meet the requirements for appointment as the Small Enterprise Ombud:
- Adv Lufuno Tokyo Nevondwe
- Adv Sonwabile Mancotywa
- Adv Lehlohonolo Lucky Rabotapi
- Adv Nande Mheshe
The reconsideration process forms part of Parliament’s constitutional obligation to ensure a transparent, fair and credible appointment process for key oversight institutions.
The position of Small Enterprise Ombud is established in terms of the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act (Act No. 21 of 2024), which provides for the creation of the Office of the Small Enterprise Ombud Service. The Office is mandated to address complaints made by small enterprises and to promote an equitable trading environment through accessible and effective dispute resolution mechanisms.
The Ombud serves as the head of the Office and is required to be a fit and proper person with a proven track record of integrity and exemplary corporate governance. In accordance with section 17F of the Act, the Minister of Small Business Development appoints the Ombud based on a recommendation of the National Assembly, following a transparent and participatory process.
Meeting details are as follows:
Date: Wednesday, 18 March 2026
Time: 09:30–13:00
Venue: M514, fifth floor, Marks Building, Parliament
Members of the media are invited to cover the meeting.
ISSUED BY PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES
For media inquiries or to request an interview with the Chairperson, please contact Media Officer:
Justice Molafo (Mr)
Cell: 081 424 7481
Email: jmolafo@parliament.gov.za
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