Gauteng Provincial Legislature Speaker’s message in light of recent developments within the province
The Speaker of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL), Honourable Ntombi Mekgwe would like to convey messages of support on the following:
On the matter relating to the mini-bus taxi collision incident in Bronkhorstspruit three weeks ago, the Speaker would like to publicly convey deepest condolences to the families of the nineteen school children and the driver who died. The GPL family joins Gauteng and Mpumalanga Provinces in mourning the lives tragically lost and is praying for the families to find peace, strength and comfort. It is saddening that so many lives continue to be lost each day on our roads, and it can never be reiterated enough that drivers continue practising safe driving habits and vigilance on the roads.
On the matter relating to the online application system which went live on the 8th May, Speaker Mekgwe wishes to applaud the Gauteng Department of Education, led by MEC Panyaza Lesufi for successfully implementing the system without reported glitches. The GPL is satisfied with the surety given that the system will function fully and assist in alleviating 2018 schools’ application challenges for learners and parents across the province. Such an initiative is recognized and as the Oversight body within the province, GPL encourages all other Departments to follow suit in finding innovative ways of alleviating service delivery challenges that contribute towards a better quality of life for the people of Gauteng.
The GPL is extremely disheartened in light of the recent matter of a waterpolo teacher allegedly sexually assaulting pupils at Parktown Boys’ High School. The Speaker sends deepest sympathies to the pupils affected and their families; and encourages the school as well as law enforcement officials to do their utmost best in ensuring justice is served and the victims receive required support throughout the process.
On the matter relating to the public protests that ensued on Moday in Johannesburg South affecting Lenasia‚ Eldorado Park‚ Ennerdale as well as Freedom Park; Speaker Mekgwe is extremely concerned. As a tribune of the people, GPL does not take lightly the residents’ complaints against lack of houses and job; and respects people’s constitutional right to public protest. However, Speaker Mekgwe condemns the violence that has erupted, resulting in members of the community and law enforcement officials clashing and sustaining injuries. She further commits to GPL taking action in addressing these concerns through the Portfolio Committees whose work is to ensure services are delivered by government to the people.
GPL further condemns racial tensions in Coligny, North West; and is imploring on government and residents to find amicable solutions for all parties.
The Speaker reminds the people of Gauteng of their constitutional right to petition on issues related to the work of Government, and GPL provides the platform for communities to raise their concerns and have them addressed by relevant structures through the petitioning process. Citizens are encouraged to rather utilise this system as the most effective and peaceful means of resolving community concerns, grievances and requests without resorting to violent demonstrations, by submitting petitions/grievances/complaints in writing or physically to the GPL.
The Committees of the Legislature are committed to continue working towards implementing the constitutional mandates through monitoring the work of Gauteng Government Departments and providing timeous feedback to all affected stakeholders.
For more information and interview please contact:
Ms Pfano Bulasigobo
Tel: 011 498 6381
Cell: 060 533 1982
E-mail: PBulasigobo@gpl.gov.za
Follow us on twitter: @Gautenglegislat
