Time for a fresh start
THE SIXTH term of Parliament has officially kicked off. The swearing in of members has also been completed. Some faces are familiar while some include a new and much younger contingent. The excitement from the members over the past two days has been palpable.
Equally, it may have been entertaining for some to see members of the EFF break into the popular “vosho” dance during the swearing-in ceremony.
Undoubtedly, proceedings within the National Assembly over the past three years have garnered a wide public interest as citizens seek to understand how the House works.
However the show must go on. This new era of Parliament signals a fresh start for every MP. It places an emphasis on the fact that they have a mountain of duties and responsibilities they need to deal with.
They should at all times be mindful that they and the political parties they represent have been given a mandate by the electorate.
Theatrics and cheap politicking can no longer be a priority; instead every individual and leader has a role to not only hold the executive accountable, but to ensure that every piece of legislation passed down is solid, in line with the country’s Constitution and for the benefit of every citizen.
South Africa is growing and this year’s elections have shown that the masses are no longer prepared to tolerate complacency.
This means there is a large expectation from various constituencies for clear action to be taken by the president and MPs. Parliamentary subcommittees need to continue working hard and debates in Parliament must be more robust than ever.
Our government structures are not businesses, nor should they be treated as areas of leisure and amassing wealth.
They are a privilege and a platform which MPs should use to work hard at assisting government to improve the country.
If MPs or members of provincial legislatures fail to execute their duties effectively, history may well be a harsh teacher five years from now.
As an architect will tell you, human behaviour changes according to the environment.
PETER GABRIEL
British musician