Parliament resumed business on February 3 after its Christmas recess. 

Opening the Eleventh Meeting of the First Session of the Sixth Parliament, the Speaker Ms Ntlhoi Motsamai urged Members to engage in a serious contemplation of the responsibilities that are an integral part of MPs positions as leaders of the people. 

Theirs was the type of leadership that faces difficulties without flinching and does the right thing even if this goes against artisan interests, above all, leadership that shoulders responsibilities. Members should transcend the limits of individual perceptions, and put their hearts and minds together so that they can cooperatively deal with issues and overcome challenges, the Speaker said. 

It is equally important that they develop a habit of regular introspection which will enable them to assess whether or not they were still relevant as political actors, and ask pertinent questions to determine whether or not they were making any difference in the lives of those they represent. 

The Speaker commended the achievements made in the last year, including the Parliamentary reform Programme and the establishment of portfolio committees; and the establishment of the parliamentary website, which will provide more education on the work of the legislature and enable the public to interact with Members on various aspects of their constitutional mandate through the website. 

Ms Motsamai also announced the sad news of the death of two Members: Senator Lechesa Mathealira, the Principal Chief of Tsikoane, Peka and Kolbere who died on December 28, 2005 after a long illness, and of  the Honourable Kelebone Mosuhli, Member for Lebakeng Constituency no.70. Hon. Mosuhli died on  December 11, 2005 also having been ill for quite some time.

03 February 2006