“The SCA received information that the selection and appointment process for members of CNIDH has been conducted in a manner that could compromise its independence.

 The CNIDH has indicated that the selection and appointment process is under the authority of Parliament as stipulated by the enabling law. As such, in keeping with Articles 7, 8 and 9 of its enabling Law, the vacant Executive Secretary position has been filled by the second candidate to the position of Executive Secretary (86 votes over 116) after the leading candidate (113 votes over 116) withdrew.

The SCA is of the view that the current provision on selection and appointment does not provide sufficient protection against political interference that could adversely impact the actual and perceived institutional independence of the CNIDH, and it also threatens the stability and credibility of the institution.

The SCA refers to Paris Principle B.1 and to its General Observation 1.8 on ‘Selection and appointment of the decision-making body of NHRIs’”