DA'S INFORMATION BILL MARCH

The decision by the Democratic Alliance to march to the Houses of Parliament in protest against the Protection of Information Bill, which is undergoing processing by the parliamentary committee, is puzzling.

Having just concluded public hearings on the Bill, parliament is currently considering views from various sectors of our society to ensure that they form part of the final draft to be presented to the National Assembly sitting for voting. The DA has always been, and continues to be, part of all parliamentary forums dealing with this Bill through its representatives in this institution.

It is unheard of that a political party organises a march against an institution within which it enjoys a significant representation, thereby undermining and pre-empting the very formal process it is party to. It verges on the absurd as it is tantamount to MPs marching against themselves.

As the leading opposition party, the DA should be exemplary in respecting available platforms provided for by parliament and contribute compelling arguments to influence the process within, rather than howl from the outside.

Statement issued by the Office of the ANC Chief Whip, ANC Parliamentary Caucus, October 12 2010

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