South Africa's National Assembly has adopted a report establishing a new committee to oversee the Presidency, amid objections from one party. The move stems from earlier parliamentary discussions and the State Capture Commission findings. Additional reforms to question procedures will take effect next year.
The National Assembly recently passed a report from the Rules Committee, creating a dedicated committee focused on oversight of the Presidency. This decision came with opposition from the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, marking a notable dissent in the proceedings.
ANC Deputy Chief Whip Dorries Mpapane highlighted the origins of the proposal, noting it first emerged during the 6th Parliament and gained further support through the State Capture Commission's report. She emphasized the committee's role in scrutinizing the Presidency's budget and administration, allowing it to summon executive members delegated by the President for accountability.
“The proposed committee is expected to focus on the budget and administration of the Presidency and to call a member of the executive delegated by the President to account; therefore, in this way, it will function in a similar way to a portfolio committee, but the rules also permit it to call the President and the deputy President once every year to discuss policy matters of national and international importance,” Mpapane stated.
Alongside this, the Assembly approved changes to oral reply procedures, including extended time for ministers to respond to questions in the House. Mpapane described these updates as distinctive, setting South Africa's Parliament apart from global counterparts. All reforms are scheduled to begin implementation next year, enhancing parliamentary scrutiny and efficiency.
This development reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen oversight mechanisms in South African governance, building on recommendations from past inquiries.