South Africa makes use of a Proportional Representation electoral system. This means that our elected representatives (Members of Parliament) are not elected from geographic areas in the way Ward Councillors are elected in Local Government elections.
MPs have a Constitutional duty to interact with the public and assist the public ...
Following the transition to a virtual/hybrid Parliament in April, the 2020 parliamentary year came to an end on 9 December.
It was an unprecedented year
In March, Parliament took a decision to suspend its programme as a precautionary measure due to COVID-19, which saw a drastic limit to the number ...
On the 11th of November, affected South African in 95 wards across the country will be making their way to cast their votes in this year’s municipal by-elections. Unlike the general national elections, where all South African citizens who are 18 years and older can vote, the by-elections take place ...
Voter turnout for by-elections, which are used to fill political offices that become vacant between general elections, has historically lagged behind that for municipal, provincial and national elections. There are many reasons why this is the case. In our October survey, we looked at voter attitudes and views on ...
There are three weeks left until Parliament rises for the year.
In the remaining days, lawmakers are scheduled to vote on several Bills, approve government spending, hold debates, scrutinise government performance, consider statutory appointments and instruments and finalise assorted Committee Reports.
The NA chamber has a full programme and will ...
There's a full and mixed flavour to the coming week's parliamentary business.
The highlights include a joint debate, Question Time Session with the Deputy President, a Ministerial briefing, legislative business and high-profile Committee hearings.
Last week, the President addressed Parliament on the government’s Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan. In his ...
The United Nations recognises the 2nd of October as the International Day of Non-Violence. It is also the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence.
On the 15th of July 2020, during an announcement on the easing of ...
The United Nations recognises the 23rd of September as the International Day of Sign Languages. This day provides a unique opportunity to support and protect the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of all deaf people.
To help us understand the importance of this day, we spoke to Dr Wilma Newhoudt-Druchen. ...
International Literacy Day was first celebrated in 1966 by UNESCO. This day is intended to raise awareness on the importance of reading. Fifty four years later this day remains important as illiteracy remains a challenge for many people, particularly in the developing world. In South Africa, the Department of ...
There will be a brief lull in Parliament this week, with the National Assembly in recess from today until 5 October.
During this period NA lawmakers will be performing constituency work. They have a duty to: be available to the public, help solve problems and report back to their constituents ...
