SECUNDA – Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature has entered into a memorandum of understanding with South African Local Government Association (SALGA) – Mpumalanga.

This follows lengthy discussions between the Legislature and SALGA Mpumalanga on involvement of SALGA in the work of the Legislature. This happened on the second day of “Taking the Legislature to the People” on Tuesday in Secunda.

The agreement was duly signed by Speaker, Mr Sipho William Lubisi on behalf of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature and Councillor Mafika Nkosi on behalf of SALGA Mpumalanga.

This is an outcome of a lengthy discussion between the parties on constitutionality of the matter. It is hoped that the signing of this agreement will inspire provincial counterparts to follow suit

According to Speaker Lubisi, “the agreement will create a uniform approach in the manner in which SALGA will participate in law making, oversight and public participation process of the legislature”. This means SALGA Mpumalanga can now participate in the legislature committee activities as part of strengthening the oversight function of the legislature.

According to Councillor Nkosi, the agreement will ensure that the voice of organised local government is heard at the provincial level. This will allow proper oversight over the municipal Integrated Development Plans (IDPs).

The MoU will also strengthen and deepen the principle of participatory democracy. Earlier in the day, a prayer with different inter-faiths was held in the name of peace in the country and the world, as well as peaceful elections.