Civil society organisations express concerns following resignation of nuclear regulator’s CEO

The recent resignation of National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) CEO Dr Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka has stimulated reaction from a number of South African civil society organisations. Dr Tyobeka’s resignation was announced by the NNR Board on March 18. The reason given for his resignation was, in the words of the Board’s statement, “to pursue his profession elsewhere”. Tyobeka had headed the NNR since September 2013, or for about eight-and-a-half years. “The Board would like to take this opportunity to appreciate the commitment and invaluable contribution made by Dr Tyobeka during his tenure, and wishes him all the best in his future endeavours,” it said. Both the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA), the South African Faith Communities’ Environment Institute (SAFCEI) and the Federation for a Sustainable Environment on Thursday expressed concern on Dr Tyobeka’s departure. They also called for greater transparency from the NNR.