Speaker Makhosazane Masilela led the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature (MPL) in rolling out its week-long ‘Taking Legislature to the People’ initiative in Steve Tshwete Local Municipality.

The programme ran from August 31 to September 4, aiming to bridge the gap between provincial government and residents through direct consultation and oversight.

The MPL spokesperson, Paul Mbenyane, outlined the extensive schedule for the week.

The programme kicked off with political parties conducting constituency work, followed by public hearings on September 1 to respond directly to issues raised by residents during the preliminary visits in June.

“On Wednesday, various committees performed oversight on government-funded projects, while on Thursday they engaged with stakeholders, including multi-faith prayer sessions for a successful outreach and upcoming elections,” Mbenyane said.

The week concluded on September 4 with an address by Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu summarising key findings.

Speaker defends outreach expenditure

Addressing concerns regarding government expenditure, Masilela stressed that the initiative is a core constitutional obligation rather than a wasteful exercise.

“Taking Legislature to the People makes a genuine impact in the lives of the people of Mpumalanga,” Masilela said.

“We receive progress reports from communities thanking the legislature for interventions that delivered services. It is our mandate to consult the public and perform oversight on the ground rather than relying on desktop information to ensure we are improving lives.”

Masilela urges voters

On August 31, Masilela extended an open invitation to all community members across Steve Tshwete, regardless of background, emphasising that inclusivity is essential to democratic governance.

“Whether you are Indian, Coloured, White, or Black, you must attend these events because it is about you. This government is yours and needs you to shape it.”

“If you are not part of it, your voice will not be heard in the legislature or in government,” she said.

With local government elections scheduled for November 4, the speaker also made a strong appeal for civic participation, particularly among women, urging voters to exercise their democratic rights.

“Your vote is your voice. If you do not vote, you are depriving yourself of a right that many died for.”

“To the women of Mpumalanga, let us take charge and lead at the voting stations, as women make up the majority on the voters’ roll and stand to benefit from key government empowerment programmes.”