Pretoria - Newly-elected National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Chairperson Thandi Modise has pleaded with members to move beyond party politics and unite behind the pursuit of better responses to the challenges facing local communities.
“This is the legacy we should be able to leave behind at the end our term,” Modise said in her acceptance speech after being elected unopposed earlier today.
She told the House that they have no choice but to ensure that the tide of discontent in the local government sphere is responded to adequately.
“Our hands can only be on the heartbeat of our communities through ensuring that our conception of integrated development embraces the reality and totality of challenges faced in the provinces.”
Modise said she was looking forward to more intimate relationships with both the premiers and speakers of the various provinces, as well as the South African Local Government Association (SALGA).
The NCOP has a unique and important role to play in South Africa’s constitutional democracy. It represents the provinces to ensure that provincial interests are taken into account in the national sphere of government.
Modise also paid tribute to her predecessor, Mninwa Mahlangu.
Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng swore in the 54 permanent delegates to the NCOP earlier on Thursday.
Raseriti Tau was elected as Deputy Chairperson. - SAnews. gov.za
