Hon Speaker, the IFP thanks all who have assisted during this year to make a wonderful success of our Parliament. We also wish all members a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, and wish you to return well rested to come and serve our country. Mr Speaker, I am sure you will agree with me that this year flew like a bullet. To me, it feels as if it is still the beginning of the year, while we are at the end of the year. We are also practically at the end of the Fourth Parliament. There will be elections in a few months and many of us may not return next year. So, it is a historic day for us today.
We seldom get an opportunity to speak openly to one another like today. Yes, today is such a day. Today, there is no room for politics - no room for arguments. Today is the day for peace and sharing values with one another. [Applause.]
I want to share with our colleagues about values; to look critically at what values we have as Members of Parliament - what value I am adding, what value you are adding. If you feel that you did not add value, do not run for elections again.
Our country needs public representatives who can successfully add value with respect to the huge challenges facing our country. South Africa needs Members of Parliament who are fit, proper and humble persons who focus strongly on solving South Africa's problems, those who understand that South Africa is a country with many diverse people who have to be dealt with patiently.
An MP must respect all other MPs; should never miss a meeting of the House or a committee; should arrive on time, fully prepared after having done proper research for the meeting; and make valuable contributions that add value. We should therefore ask ourselves this one very important question: Am I adding value or not?
In conclusion, I believe that if we as Members of Parliament remain humble, live a life of respect for others, and are really disciplined Members of Parliament, we will be adding value and will be rewarded with huge successes.
Hambani Kahle! [Go well!]
Tsamayang hantle, mme le tsamaye le Modimo. Re tla bonana ka selemo sa 2014. [Go well, and go with God. We will see each other in 2014.]
Mooi loop. Julle moet soet wees. [Take care. You must behave yourselves.]
Kgotsong! [Farewell!] [Applause.]