ANC calls out the DA-led Western Cape government’s Provincial Powers Bill virtual consultation – A move that undermines public participation by citizens
1 March 2024
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is scheduled to conduct public hearings on the controversial Powers Bill online today, Friday, 01 March 2024.
The African National Congress (ANC) is opposed to this online public hearing, which we believe undermines the fundamental right of active public participation of all its citizens in the process, notwithstanding the fact that the bill is unconstitutional.
At the heart of this issue lies the exclusion of the public from the decision-making process. By opting for a virtual format, the DA effectively bars those without internet access from voicing their concerns and opinions. This exclusion disproportionately affects marginalized communities, where access to technology is scarce. In Cape Town, where socio-economic disparities run deep, this decision strikes a blow to the very essence of democracy — the right of every citizen to have a say in matters that affect their lives.
The timing of this move raises suspicions. With the bill nearing its final stages, the DA's sudden pivot to a virtual hearing smacks of a calculated strategy to expedite its passage. By eliminating the need for physical venues and the logistical challenges they entail, the DA streamlines the process, potentially sidestepping thorough public scrutiny and debate. This raises serious questions about the party's commitment to transparency and accountability.
Furthermore, the pretext for this virtual hearing — the purported inability to secure a suitable public venue — rings hollow in the ears of many. The postponement of the previous hearing due to venue constraints only adds fuel to the fire of scepticism. In a city where the ruling party wields considerable influence, the notion that suitable venues cannot be found strains credulity. It begs the question: Is the DA truly unable to find a venue, or is this merely a convenient excuse to push forward with their agenda?
Central to the controversy surrounding this decision is the issue of power dynamics. As the ruling party in the Western Cape, the DA holds significant sway over the legislative process. With their numerical advantage, they possess the ability to shepherd bills through the assembly with relative ease. In this case, the virtual hearing serves as a tool to consolidate that power, effectively silencing dissenting voices and opinions. It is a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in unchecked political dominance — the erosion of democratic principles in favor of partisan interests.
The implications of this decision extend far beyond the confines of Cape Town's legislative chambers.
They strike at the very heart of democracy itself. At its core, democracy hinges on the active participation of its citizens. When that participation is curtailed, whether by design or circumstance, the foundation of democracy begins to crumble. In Cape Town, a city with a rich history of civic engagement and activism, the DA's move threatens to extinguish the flame of democracy that has burned brightly for generations.
To address this crisis of democracy, we must first acknowledge its existence. We must shine a light on the shadowy corridors where decisions are made behind closed doors, away from the prying eyes of the public. We must demand accountability from those who purport to represent us, holding them to the highest standards of transparency and integrity. And we must reclaim our voices, raising them in unison to demand a seat at the table of democracy.
Disillusionment towards the DA and smaller identity-based parties and confidence towards the ANC as a govemment in waiting continues in the Western Cape. On Wednesday, 28th February in Paarl East yesterday, 415 former ANC members returned to the movement from the DA, ICOSA , NFP and the PA.
The new members were welcomed by the Provincial Deputy Chairperson, Sharon Davids who administered the ANC oath. The ANC welcomes back these cadres of the movement and looks forward to their contributions in advancing a better life for all.
In the battle for the soul of Cape Town's democracy, the stakes could not be higher. The outcome of this struggle will shape the future of the city for generations to come. Will we succumb to the forces of apathy and indifference, allowing our democracy to wither and die? Or will we rise to the challenge, reclaiming our power and our voice in the face of adversity? The choice is ours to make, but the time to act is now.
Issued by Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri, National Spokesperson, ANC, 1 March 2024
