Chief Justice Zondo Implements New Rules to Ensure Orderliness at Parliament’s First Sitting

Picture courtesy: (Netwerk24) Chief Justice Zondo Enforces New Rules with Zero Tolerance for Chaos as the first sitting of parliament commences.

 (The Post News)- Anticipation is mounting for South Africa’s Parliament’s inaugural session, as Chief Justice Raymond Zondo has proactively taken measures to ensure smooth proceedings.
 
Scheduled for Friday, June 14, and Saturday, June 15, this first sitting of the Houses of Parliament includes the swearing-in of members and the commencement of legislative business.
 
Chief Justice Zondo, presiding over the proceedings, began by extending congratulations to the assembled parliamentarians, acknowledging the weight of their responsibilities. 
 
Reflecting the constitutional authority vested in his office, Zondo invoked Item 9 of Part A of Schedule 3 of the Constitution, which empowers him to institute rules governing the election procedures for various parliamentary positions, including the President, Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and others.
 
In a decisive move, Chief Justice Zondo announced modifications to existing parliamentary rules, signalling a commitment to uphold decorum and efficiency. 
 
Notably, Rule 8 has been replaced with a new provision, highlighting the importance of adherence to procedural matters essential to the day’s agenda.
 
The revised rule stipulates that any member may raise a question of procedure with the presiding officer’s permission, ensuring that parliamentary business proceeds in an orderly fashion.
 
Furthermore, Chief Justice Zondo emphasised that members should conduct themselves with decorum, warning against disruptive behaviour that could impede proceedings.
 
Addressing potential infractions, Chief Justice Zondo outlined measures to maintain order within the chamber.
 
Members found in violation of parliamentary rules may be directed to leave the chamber immediately, with designated protection services authorised to enforce such directives if necessary. 
 
In cases of resistance or violence, Chief Justice Zondo asserted the presiding officer’s authority to suspend proceedings and enlist security services to restore order, safeguarding the integrity of parliamentary deliberations.
 
Police authorities are reported to already be at the Cape Town Convention Centre and prepared to ensure that the first Assembly seating proceeds without interruptions or unforeseen circumstances.
 
In his address to the assembled members, Chief Justice Zondo emphasised the significance of their roles in shaping the nation’s future through legislative action. He reminded them of the honour and responsibility inherent in their positions, urging them to approach their duties with the gravity they deserve.
 
As South Africa prepares for this historic moment in its democratic journey, Chief Justice Zondo’s decisive actions are to uphold the integrity and effectiveness of parliamentary proceedings. 
 
With new rules in place, the first sitting of Parliament is ready to set a precedent for orderly and productive governance in the days ahead.
 
The Chief Justice’s instructions regarding armed protection services and maintaining order and decency in the Legislature are clear and necessary for the smooth functioning of proceedings.
 
 
The provision for dealing with disruptions or inappropriate behaviour demonstrates a commitment to upholding standards of conduct within the Chamber. These guidelines should help facilitate constructive de
and decision-making processes.
 

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Gosiame Moropa

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