Despite images of squabbling, parties tend to work together behind the scenes

Ben TurokNow that the buzz generated by the president’s state of the nation address is over we can reflect on how parliament is supposed to work to do the job set out in the constitution. As we shall see, parliament is actually a complex institution, much more so than the conventional view that it is a place where politicians squabble about bits of legislation and engage in nasty personal attacks.

Let’s go back to the earlier stages. ANC branches nominate individuals for the National Assembly, National Council of Provinces and provincial councils. These are processed through various stages and finalised by the national list committee, which has some discretion to ensure equal male and female representation and that the final lists are fair. Ultimately, the lists go to officials in parliament and members are sworn in.

There is some uncertainty about the administration, since the secretary of parliament has been on suspension for a long time and the speaker’s office seems unable to resolve matters. But there are ample officials who will continue to manage the order paper and business of the house, allocate meeting rooms and offices, and all the other practical matters that need attention.

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