DOC needs 'best brains'

The Department of Communications (DOC) has not yet appointed a director-general, because it needs to find the “best brains in the market”.

Despite plans to have the position filled by the end of March, and when that did not occur, by the end of April, the department has not yet finalised the appointment.

DOC spokesperson Tiyani Rikhotso says the department hopes to complete the process as soon as possible.

“It remains a matter that we treat with urgency, because we do need to bring in that stability for the department.”

However, Rikhotso adds that it is quite an involved process. He says it takes quite some time to fill such a top-level position, because it needs to be a highly skilled individual. The DOC is dealing with major projects like the digital migration process, and is concerned that it needs to get someone who possesses the right skills to deal with these projects.

“It's just a matter of making sure we get the best brains in the market. We need to make sure we get the best head of department to serve government and industry,” says the spokesperson.

He also says for the sake of confidentiality of the process, the department cannot reveal how many candidates are being considered for the position. There is no particular date or timeframe for the appointment as yet.

In November, communications minister Roy Padayachie stated the first priority of the new ministry involved an intervention in the reconstruction and development of the DOC.

Harold Wesso has been filling the position as acting DG.

Democratic Alliance deputy shadow minister of communications Niekie van den Berg says the department needs to appoint a DG soon.

“The minister came in with a lot of bright things for the ministry's future, and when we looked at the strategic plan compared to last year's one, it was a fresh take and full of ideas.

“There was a new vibrancy in the department. What's important here is that they don't lose that momentum. If they lose that momentum at this stage, it will be devastating.”

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