Madam Deputy Speaker, Cope believes that it is imperative that this House takes note of the comments made by Mr Mathatha Tsedu in his lecture at the University of the Free State last night, that modern-day leaders lack the inclination to serve the people, especially the poor, preferring rather to enrich themselves.
There have been calls from many others as well, who consistently raised the concern that leadership today in our country is less about the people and more about self-enrichment, in both the public and private sectors.
While we may wish to believe that these calls are mere perceptions, we must heed the adage that perceptions are facts. To ignore these calls by our people would be to invite them to disregard the moral authority that legitimises and sustains leadership, without which any society is doomed to a reign of chaos and instability. We therefore call on this House to bear this in mind as we formulate strategies, policies and plans for advancing the welfare of our people and exercise oversight for the implementation of these.
For Parliament to uphold and constantly proclaim these virtues, striving to be the definition of integrity, will be to send a clear message to our people about the country we seek to become, thus reigniting the sense of belonging, for all South Africans. Thank you. [Applause.]