SADC PF public hearings aim to promote citizen engagement and regional integration: Moses Magadza
SADC citizens will have an opportunity to engage their representatives within the Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) on a range of issues when it hosts its 2024 public hearing session from 18 to 20 October.
Joseph Manzi, the director of programmes at the SADC PF, said the public hearings seek to leverage the role of the SADC PF in facilitating citizen participation in regional integration, with the theme: “Leveraging the Role of SADC Parliamentary Forum in Facilitating Citizen Participation in SADC Regional Integration for Enhanced Accountability and Inclusive Socio-Economic Development and Cohesion.”
The SADC PF introduced public hearings in 2022 under the broad theme: “Consolidating Democracy by Bringing Parliament to the People”.
Manzi said the public hearings are now structured to encourage a more inclusive dialogue concerning regional governance while actively addressing key issues such as Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), gender equality, democratic processes, climate action and socio-economic development.
He said the shift to this year’s theme reflects years of feedback indicating a need for greater awareness among citizens regarding the opportunities SADC PF presents.
The approach is thus about informing SADC citizens about the avenues available for participation within parliamentary structures.
The public hearings will take place virtually, allowing for greater participation without the logistical challenges associated with physical gatherings.
“We are using platforms like Zoom, and we are incorporating translation in English, French, and Portuguese to reach a broader audience,” Manzi explained.
He added that to ensure that no one is left behind, SADC PF has introduced sign language interpretation during the public hearings, marking a significant step toward full inclusivity.
“We want to guarantee that every voice is heard. These public hearings are for all SADC citizens, including those who may often be overlooked,” he said.
With 12 SADC Member States having signed the Agreement to Amend Treaty establishing the SADC PF, the Forum is set to transform into a SADC Parliament.
Manzi said as the transition toward a regional parliament gathers momentum, it is important that SADC citizens understand and exercise their power to influence regional outcomes.
“The SADC PF made a policy in 2022 that one of the two statutory meetings (per year) of its standing committees should be a public hearing session. There has been growing interest among citizens, members of parliament and other stakeholders. We expect this trend to continue as we go into the third round of the virtual public hearings starting from 18 October 2024 all the way up to the 25th of October 2024,” he stated.
Manzi said everything was set.
“All…
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