ActionSA has proposed a motion in the Gauteng Legislature to clarify MPL oversight rights and improve government transparency. File Picture: Nokuthula Mbatha / Independent Newspapers
ActionSA has announced a vital motion that seeks to reinforce the oversight authority of Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs), aimed at bolstering accountability and transparency within the Gauteng Provincial Legislature.
This initiative underscores the party's commitment to ensuring that the Executive is held accountable for its actions, ultimately ensuring that Gauteng residents receive the services they are constitutionally entitled to.
The necessity for this motion was underscored on Monday, October 22, when a Member of the Executive obstructed MPLs from conducting unannounced oversight visits.
This interference extended to the Gauteng Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa), which was prevented from carrying out an unannounced visit to the Charlotte Maxeke Hospital on Thursday, October 17.
In response to these actions, ActionSA's motion aims to clarify and enforce the provisions outlined in Sections 114(2)(b) and 113 of the South African Constitution, ensuring that there is no ambiguity regarding the legislative mandate.
John Moodey, ActionSA Gauteng MPL, emphasised that ‘’this motion will empower MPLs to conduct both announced and unannounced visits to provincial departments and organs of state,’’ ensuring that services are delivered efficiently and fairly.
The motion aims to restore the vital role of MPLs and portfolio committees in monitoring provincial services.
By facilitating oversight visits, MPLs will be equipped to review the quality of services provided, with efficiency and impartiality, and determine whether they fulfil the criteria established by law and policy frameworks.
ActionSA is confident that this initiative will enhance the legislature's ability to hold the executive accountable, fostering greater trust between the government and the communities it serves.
As a party rooted in the principles of servant leadership, Moodey said ActionSA is dedicated to promoting openness and responsiveness within government institutions.
This motion is a crucial step towards achieving these ideals, and the party calls upon all political factions within the legislature to lend their support, emphasising the importance of upholding Gauteng province's democratic principles.
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