Election of Committee Chairperson

Meeting report

Election of Chairperson
The Committee Secretary, Mr Darrin Arends, called the meeting to order. He introduced himself to the committee members and told them that Rule 158 of the Rules of the National Assembly required him, as committee secretary, to call for nominations for a chairperson of the committee. If there was more than one nomination, there would be a vote by a show of hands.

Mr Arends noted that the committee formed a quorum and then called for nominations.

Mr X Qayiso (ANC majority whip) nominated Mr S Buthelezi (ANC).

The nomination was seconded by Ms M Dikgale (ANC).

Mr Arends asked if there were any other nominations.

Mr D Joseph (DA) nominated himself.

He was seconded by the only other DA member of the committee, Mr A Sarupen.

Mr Arends called on those who were in favour of Mr Buthlezi’s nomination to raise their hands. Seven out of 10 members present voted for him.

Ms E Ntlangweni (EFF) said she abstained from voting.

Mr Arends then declared Mr Buthelezi chairperson of the committee.

The Chairperson thanked members for electing him. He welcomed Mr Joseph’s standing, saying this showed democracy in practice. He said he looked forward to a good working relationship with all members. The fact that several members had served on the committee in the previous parliament would ensure continuity in its work.

Ms Ntlangweni said she hoped the committee would continue to work as a team.

The Chairperson said that, while there had to be room for members from different parties to disagree, he trusted there would be more that united them than divided them.

The Chairperson then outlined the draft committee programme. He said it provided for briefings on the Appropriations Bill by the National Treasury and the Financial and Fiscal Commission as well as public hearings on the Bill which was to be debated by the National Assembly on July 23.

Mr O Mathafa (ANC) moved that the programme be adopted.

Ms E Peters (ANC) seconded the motion and it was adopted unanimously.

There being no further business, the Chairperson adjourned the meeting.