– DA accepts constitutional validity of the processes resulting in Fufe Makatong becoming Speaker of the NC Legislature
– Unified opposition impossible when PA consolidates ANC powers
– Makatong must focus on oversight, infrastructure
The Democratic Alliance in the Northern Cape accepts the constitutional validity of the processes which led to Fufe Makatong becoming Speaker of the Northern Cape Provincial Legislature.
This outcome reflects the reality of a hung legislature in a multi-party democracy. The successful election of a Speaker from an opposition party requires collaboration from all fifteen opposition members. Unfortunately, the Patriotic Alliance (PA) is too intent on protecting their position as Deputy Speaker and would rather consolidate the ANC’s power in the Legislature than allow for unified opposition collaboration.
It is inevitable that such ideological differences will occur in a multi-party democracy. It is up to the voters to reject those who would prefer to maintain the status quo while pretending to be in opposition, as the PA does.
Makatong inherits a relatively stable institution from her predecessor, Newrene Klaaste.
As Speaker, Makatong must now strengthen the oversight role of the Legislature and allow committees to flex their statutory muscles. Communities are bearing the brunt of inadequate health care, unacceptable levels of basic services, dangerously unsafe roads, inhumane housing decisions, and continued socio-economic devastation caused by continued high unemployment and poverty levels. Democracy in real action requires vigorous and robust oversight, not rubberstamping watered-down committee reports.
She must also prioritize the conclusion of longstanding infrastructure challenges at the precinct, which often disrupts the Legislature’s operations and may endanger the safety of employees, visitors, and Members of the Provincial Legislature.
We will work with her to ensure that the Legislature delivers effective oversight and holds the executive to account. Doing so may also require holding her to account, which we will do without fear or favour.