Deputy President reiterates the need to be more transparent and responsive

26 March 2010

Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe in his address to the National Council of Provinces at its sitting at Sekhukhune FET College (Dr CN Phatudi Campus), Praktiseer, Burgersfort during the ‘Taking Parliament to the People programme’, highlighted the need for government to be more transparent and responsive.

He stressed that people should have enough information about the development projects in their areas, so that they could raise the alarm to public representative in cases where there is lack of quality service delivery and plans are not being fulfilled.

Deputy President spoke on the five priorities of national government namely education, health, rural development, creation of decent work opportunities and the fight against crime.

Deputy President stressed the importance of education and urged the youth to channel their energies into making positive changes to society such as campaigning against drug abuse and for road safety.

He also reminded the Greater Tubatsi community that they have the power to call their public representatives to account and that this power is with them at all times

"The youth have energy, but this energy needs to be channelled to better and productive efforts, education of our youth should not just be the responsibility of government but society as a whole,” said the Deputy President.

Deputy President emphasised government's commitment to speed up the roll out of the national HIV and AIDS testing to ensure the reduction in new infections and encouraging positives lifestyles. Deputy President called on the people of Limpopo to work together with law enforcement agencies to root out crime.

"We live with these criminals and we tend to say if I have not been affected by crime it is none of my business, but I can assure you when they have exhausted your neighbours they will come for you," said Deputy President Motlanthe.

In conclusion, Deputy President encouraged the NCOP to continue with its oversight duties as it was vital in ensuring that government delivers on its priorities and realise a better life for all.

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Issued by: The Presidency
26 March 2010
Source: Sapa