Ms Hlomela Bucwa (DA)

Ms Hlomela Bucwa

What is your political background? If one shares the definition that politics is the governance of people then allow me to say that this started at a very young age. I always questioned the status quo and why society functioned the way it did. I became actively involved in politics in 2011 as an activist for the Democratic Alliance Sudent Association (DASO) and this has led to my passion to see a better South Africa. In 2014 I served in the SRC and was subsequently elected as the DASO presidential candidate. We went on to win that election and I served as the President. I continued to serve as an activist and as a voice of the youth.

What does my job as an MP entail? Members of Parliament are elected representatives of the people entrusted with the mandate to enact laws that will better the lives of our people, to hold the executive accountable and ensure fulfillment of our constitutional mandate. This also means that we must ensure we provide oversight in our set constituencies and bring their issues and grievances forth. It also requires of me to be an effective member in my portfolio committee and represent the youth, particularly those in institutions of higher education as I have been allocated to this committee.

What is your impression of the Fifth Parliament so far? It is an honour and a privilege to be part of Parliament and to work with dedicated individuals that want to make South Africa better. I must concede that the lack of respect for different views and elements of intolerance in the House has been disappointing. I am however hopeful when I listen to my fellow colleagues and see their work that there is indeed hope for South Africans.

What are you passionate about? This applies both in a political/professional and personal arena? If I were to chose a quote that best describes what I am passionate about it would be this one: “I'm for truth, no matter who tells it. I'm for justice, no matter who it is for or against. I'm a human being, first and foremost, and as such I'm for whoever and whatever benefits humanity as a whole.”

What is your message to South Africans? Never let your circumstances define you. Our country has a rich and dramatic history but it has formed the foundation of who we are. It has made us stronger as a nation and served as a beacon of hope for many nations. Let us work hard to make South Africa a free and fair society with equal opportunities for all. To the youth...we are not leaders of tomorrow but let us lead now and be the change that we seek to achieve. Lastly, indeed our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter the most. Let us always speak up against an injustice.

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