Parliament is considering ways to improve its oversight role ahead of a general election that will allow independent candidates to become members of parliament. The agency states that effective supervision is the basis for improving the quality of life of the people.
The National and Provincial Parliaments held a two-day meeting that focused on effective oversight under the theme 'Oversight efforts to ensure a better life for all South Africans'.
Three branches of South Africa's government and democracy support agencies were some of the stakeholders who came together to discuss the important role of surveillance. Congress insists that judicial involvement is important.
“They also play an important role in our monitoring work, and we are sometimes asked to arbitrate when various disputes arise during our monitoring process,” said National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula. says.
Corruption, abuse of state power and misgovernment were suggested to be some of the serious deficiencies that undermine public trust and impede service delivery.
“A fundamental test of democracy is the ability of Congress to hold the executive accountable through continuous oversight. The litmus test for an active public in a democracy is the extent to which Congress holds the government accountable. “The only question is whether we can do it,” Vice President Paul Mashatil said.
Both Congress and state legislatures are advised to use the summit as a learning curve to improve their work.
“By hosting this summit, you have given yourself the opportunity and forum to be brutally honest about the challenges you have experienced and to seek solutions for the next 40 years of democracy. As a sector you will be better than before,” said Chief Justice Raymond Zondo.
Parliamentarians must also take into account the implementation of corrective measures by institutions that support democracy.
“The implementation of the Public Protector’s remedies is actually a monitoring tool, not only the PP but all constitutional bodies. We have already started reporting the remedial measures to the Speaker on a quarterly basis.” says PP Adv Kholeka Gcaleka.
Some believe that there will be no winner with an absolute majority in this year's general election, and some are proposing the enactment of a law aimed at forming a coalition government.
IEC Chairman Mosotho Mopiya said: “As we consider the possibility of coalition governments at higher levels, in the national and local government realms, the legislative branch is committed to ensuring that coalition governments are able to support our country through legislative instruments that serve political parties and the people. “We are considering the best legislation to help.”
Video: Congress increases oversight