By Minister Jeff Radebe
An exciting and key event on the Parliamentary calendar will take place tonight. President Jacob Zuma will share with the nation the government programme of action of the year and give an account of how the government performed in 2015.
This much -anticipated event marks the beginning of a parliamentary programme for the year, but also marching orders to the government and the nation from its President and Head of State.
The opening of Parliament is attended by high-ranking political and government officials including former presidents, members of the judiciary such as the chief justice of the constitutional court, ambassadors, diplomats and the governor of the Reserve Bank. It is also an opportunity for President Jacob Zuma as the Head of State to address the nation.
Typically he uses the occasion to report on government’s achievements and challenges experienced over the past year. He will also unveil government’s programme of action for the coming year to move the country forward.
The annual address gives the government an opportunity to account to parliament and the people of South Africa. It is also used as a yardstick against which to measure government’s performance.
During the debate on 16 and 17 February, members of parliament have an opportunity to interrogate, comment and raise questions on the president’s address.
South Africans from all walks of life are welcome to observe these debates as is the case with all plenary sessions of parliament. This is in keeping with the letter and spirit of the constitution to be open to the public and ensure matters that affect their daily lives take centre stage in parliament.
Our democratic dispensation marked a departure from the past. Members of parliament are elected to represent the people of the country and are therefore accountable to the people. The National Council of Provinces for instance ensures that provincial interests are taken into account in the national sphere of government.
It has made it possible for everyone in the country to become involved in parliament, be consulted and to determine the direction of the country. To consult is not a prerogative of an individual or parliament but it is the foundation of our democracy. Our constitution prescribes a process that must be followed before a policy or the law can be passed.
Members of parliament are expected to take the views of the public into account during the formulation of legislation. This is done through public hearings held around the country where organisations or individuals from all walks of life are invited to present their opinions. This in turn assists the government to take decisions based on the needs and expectations of the people.
With this in mind South Africans should use all available ways to engage elected representatives and influence their decisions. This principle applies to all spheres of the government namely national, provincial and municipal.
As we approach the upcoming municipal elections, let us set time aside to exercise our democratic right to vote in the elections taking place later this year.
When the president takes to the podium, South Africans will undoubtedly watch and listen with interest how the government will continue to improve their lives. We should also ensure we are familiar with the contents of his address so we can all play an active part in moving the country forward.
It is our collective responsibility to work with the government to overcome the country’s most pressing remaining challenges like the triple challenge of poverty, inequality and unemployment.
As we chart our course for 2016 we should do so bearing in mind that we all have a role to play in the implementation of the government’s programme and that we should use every opportunity to engage decision-makers on issues that affect our communities.
No South African should miss this important date with the president. Remember to listen or watch the address at 19h00 on 11 February so all of us can move our country forward.
Jeff Radebe is the Minister in The Presidency
