Chapter nine institutions refer to a group of organisations established in terms of Chapter 9 of the South African Constitution to guard democracy. The institutions are:
Though chapter nine calls for a broadcast regulator it does not specifically mandate the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa). Interpretations vary on whether Icasa is (or is not) a chapter nine institution.
Parliamentary review
In October 2006 an ad hoc parliamentary committee was established to investigate the chapter nine bodies with regard to employment procedures and institutional governance. Also of concern was spending on the institutions and their lack of mandate to operate outside of the country. The committee recommended the establishment of a directorate, under the office of the Speaker, to liaise with the institutions.