GOOD statement by Shaun August
GOOD: National Organiser and Member of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament
12 December 2022
The GOOD party in the Western Cape welcomes the new Speaker of the Provincial Parliament, Hon. Daylin Mitchell.
The election of a young person to lead this House is a win for the youth of the province who so desperately needs representation in institutions such as the Legislature.
As GOOD we are hopeful that the new Speaker will use his newfound powers in a just manner, and apply the rules equally and in the interest of fair representation within the Provincial Parliament. Especially since this has not always been the case.
Current Deputy Speaker, Hon. Beverly Schafer, has shown extreme bias and favouritism towards her political caucus in the past, often at the expense of other parties.
Mr. Mitchell should practice caution and not allow undue influence by DA caucus decisions. We urge him to abide by the principles of separation of powers and ensure that the Provincial Legislature’s Executive are not swayed by the DA in the Province.
DA leaders have a history of violating the rules of separation of powers and publicly involved themselves in the Legislature’s management affairs in the not-to-distant past.
For the WCPP to be fully functional and democracy thoroughly exercised, the position of Speaker remains crucial and deserves a responsive and accessible individual who will lead the House without fear or favour.
There are a number outstanding disciplinary matters that need to be dealt with urgently, including the Vassen Report which found the Deputy Speaker guilty of financial misconduct and having violated the members Code of Conduct.
I trust that Mr. Mitchell will ensure those who use public resources to advance their own interest at the expense of the poor, are dealt with expeditiously, in the framework of the law.
We cannot have a Speaker who simply toes the party line and uses their powers to protect their political party; this goes against the Oath of Office they have sworn to protect and uphold.
Media enquiries:
Shaun August, GOOD: National Organiser & Member of Western Cape Provincial Parliament
Cell: 074 746 7378
Email: shauna@forgood.org.za
Janke Tolmay, GOOD: Media Manager
Cell: 0733671223
Email: janke@forgood.org.za