New provincial speaker believes in hard work
Newly-deployed Limpopo Legislature Speaker, Paulina Polly Boshielo, spoke to Review shortly after her new position was officially announced
POLOKWANE – Newly-deployed Limpopo Legislature Speaker, Paulina Polly Boshielo, spoke to Review shortly after her new position was officially announced.
“In life I have learnt that hard work pays and nothing is for mahala. I always try to leave a mark wherever I am deployed to work and strive for excellence at all times.”
Boshielo, who was born and raised in Seshego Zone 2, was sworn in as the new Speaker on Thursday, 15 October, shortly after Merriam Ramadwa handed in her resignation.
I am going to work hard to fulfil the responsibilities the ANC has bestowed on me and failure is not an option. Yes, there will be challenges and obstacles sometimes, but we will not throw our arms in the air in despair. We will strive very hard to resolve the challenges and remove obstacles in order to achieve our goals of reducing poverty, unemployment and inequality.
“I believe a good Speaker must be able to lead by example and be a good listener. A Speaker must ensure integrity, independence and impartiality of the House, preside effectively over House sittings and demonstrate fairness during debates in the House. I must protect the rights and privileges of the Legislature, interpret and enforce standing rules and orders as well as encourage teamwork among members, including opposition,” Boshielo said.
Boshielo’s family is very happy with her latest appointment. “My family has been a pillar of strength throughout my political and academic life. I obtained all my degrees and diploma during my marriage and my family has to bear with me while I pursue my studies. Most of the time I am at work or attending political activities and the family has factored this into their lives.
Asked if she will be making any changes in Limpopo Legislature, Boshielo said changes must improve or enhance the work of the Legislature and not unnecessarily hamper it.
“This cannot be the responsibility of one person and I believe in teamwork rather than individuals trying to outshine each other,” Boshielo said.
She is currently busy with briefings and consultations with various stakeholders at the Legislature and will meet with various units of the Legislature, both in the administration and the House proceedings.
She also plans sessions with members of the Limpopo Legislature, including portfolio and standing committees, and meetings with opposition parties.
“Until I have had all my consultations, I will not effect any change in the Legislature. Any change must be informed and not be done for the sake of making them,” Boshielo concluded.
