Wondering how the new 7th Parliament is gearing up for its term? The National Assembly (NA) has recently set up crucial structures and committees to ensure smooth and effective governance. This initiative aims to enhance representation and streamline parliamentary operations.
Main Decisions from the Rules Committee
The Rules Committee of the National Assembly held its inaugural meeting on Wednesday, marking significant strides in setting up internal structures. Among the key decisions were the establishment of the Programme Committee and the Subcommittee on the Review of NA Rules. The committee also determined the composition and size of the portfolio committees in the NA.
Programme Committee
The newly established Programme Committee comprises 29 members, including the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker, the Leader of Government Business, House Chairpersons, and the Chief Whip of the Majority Party. This committee will meet weekly during parliamentary sessions to decide the agenda for the forthcoming week.
Subcommittee on the Review of NA Rules
The Subcommittee on the Review of NA Rules was also formed, consisting of nine members. This subcommittee is primarily technical and will include three ANC members and one member each from the Democratic Alliance (DA), uMkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP), Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), and Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP). Three members from smaller parties will also be included.
Expanded Portfolio Committees
One of the most notable changes is the expansion of portfolio committees. In the 7th Parliament, these committees will now consist of 15 members, up from the previous 11. This increase allows for fairer representation, given the rise in the number of political parties in the NA, from 14 in the 6th Parliament to 18 in the current term.
Composition Breakdown
- African National Congress (ANC): 5 members
- Democratic Alliance (DA): 3 members
- uMkhonto Wesizwe Party (MK): 2 members
- Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF): 1 member
- Smaller parties: 4 members (decided among themselves)
The configuration of these committees will depend on the Cabinet’s composition, which the Leader of Government Business will confirm to Parliament.
Formula for Whips, Questions, and Motions
The Rules Committee also deliberated on the formula for appointing whips, as well as the sequence of questions and motions. This ensures a structured and efficient approach to parliamentary proceedings.
Implications for Governance
These changes reflect a commitment to ensuring fair representation and effective legislative governance. By increasing the size of portfolio committees and establishing clear structures, the NA aims to accommodate the diverse political landscape and enhance its functionality.
Quick View
Table summarizing the composition changes in portfolio committees from the 6th to the 7th Parliament:
Parliament |
Total Members per Committee |
ANC Members |
DA Members |
EFF Members |
MK Members |
Other/Smaller Parties Members |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6th Parliament | 11 | 6 | 2 | 1 | N/A | 2 |
| 7th Parliament | 15 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 4 |
This restructuring aims to ensure that all political voices are fairly represented in the parliamentary process.
Key Points:
- Programme Committee: Established with 29 members to set weekly agendas.
- Subcommittee on NA Rules: Formed with nine members for technical oversight.
- Portfolio Committees: Expanded to 15 members for fair representation.
- Governance Improvements: Aimed at effective legislative functioning and representation.
Future Meetings and Actions
The Programme Committee will hold its first meeting on Friday, June 28, at 10:00 in the M26 Meeting Room of the Marks Building in Parliament. This meeting will set the stage for the forthcoming week’s agenda, ensuring that parliamentary activities are well-organized and efficiently managed.
Final Thoughts
The establishment of new structures and committees in the 7th Parliament marks a significant step towards improved governance and fair representation. By addressing the need for more inclusive and effective legislative processes, the National Assembly is poised to better serve its diverse constituents.
The commitment to enhancing parliamentary operations underscores the importance of adapting to the evolving political landscape.
These structural changes in the National Assembly are crucial for fostering a more inclusive and efficient parliamentary environment, reflecting the diverse political spectrum in the 7th Parliament.
Sources: THX News, PMG, Cape Town Today & PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA.
