Get to Know Edwin Macrae Bath

What is your political background? How did you come to join your political party and become an MP?

Believe it or not, I don’t come from a political background, and I hope this encourages others without one to consider making a difference through Parliament. My experience lies in the built environment, where I spent nearly 11 years working in administrative roles at both provincial and local government levels. During that time, I became fascinated by the relationship between administration and politics and how that dynamic can either drive or hinder efficiency.

After 11 years, I decided to pursue a Master’s in Public Governance, which led me to explore politics as a way to have a bigger impact on my career and contribute to South Africa. I realised my values aligned most with the Democratic Alliance and joined my local branch in Ward 77, Cape Town, in January 2023. From there, I became the branch campaign manager and decided to enter the DA’s rigorous candidate selection process. Fortunately, I excelled through the stages and was placed high enough on the National List (34) to be elected into the National Assembly.

What does your job as an MP entail? What impact do you hope to have?

As a Member of Parliament in South Africa, my role is to serve as a public representative at the national level. I am responsible for shaping legislation, scrutinising government actions, and ensuring accountability through oversight. In Parliament, I contribute to debates, engage in Committees to review policies, and help draft laws that address key national issues. I currently serve as a Spokesperson for the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.

Beyond Parliament, my constituency work is crucial. I represent the concerns of the people in my constituency, the Mooi-uMngeni constituency (KZN), by engaging with community members and local stakeholders to address local challenges. By staying connected with the grassroots, I can elevate their concerns to Parliament and advocate for effective solutions. This balance between national legislation and constituency representation is vital in ensuring that government remains responsive to the needs of all South Africans.

What are your thoughts on the Government of National Unity (GNU) for the Seventh Parliament?

The electorate made it clear that they no longer wanted the ANC to rule outright, opting instead for a coalition government. In response, several political parties came together to form a Government of National Unity (GNU) that works collectively towards a better future for South Africa. Early signs suggest that South Africans have embraced the GNU, and we’re already seeing positive impacts like increased investor confidence, lower inflation, lower interest rates, and better service delivery. While it's still early days, I’m optimistic that the GNU, and the inclusion of the Democratic Alliance with its reputation of good governance, reflects the will of the people and serves the best interests of the country following the 2024 elections.

What can be done to get citizens more interested/ involved in Parliament?

To get citizens more interested and involved in Parliament, I believe we need to start by introducing the role of government and Parliament at the basic education level, teaching it in primary and high schools. This would help young people understand the role of government, the difference between its three spheres, and the function of oversight bodies like Parliament, from an early age.

For the current generation, Parliament should focus on simplifying its messages and ensuring that the medium and content used are relevant to different age groups, education levels, and demographics to maximise impact and engagement. This way, we can foster a more informed and engaged citizenry.

Which Constituency Office/area have you been assigned to? Can you give examples of Constituency work you engaged in or plan to do?

I have been assigned to the Mooi-uMngeni Constituency, located in the KZN Midlands. This constituency stretches from Hilton and Howick to Impendle and parts of Mooi-River, including the Midlands Meander. I plan to work closely with the DA-led government in uMngeni Municipality and the Councillors in Mooi-River and Impendle to address local issues at the National Government level. I’ll also use my knowledge of the area and my expertise to help resolve any provincial and local government matters, ensuring we meet the needs of the community effectively.

What will you and your party be focusing on during your term? (will you introduce legislation, will your oversight focus on any specific area etc…)

During this term, the Democratic Alliance (DA) and I will be focusing on addressing South Africa’s most pressing challenges, as outlined in our 2024 manifesto. Our priorities include:

Economic Growth and Job Creation: We’ll work to create an environment that attracts investment, supports small businesses, and stimulates job creation, with a strong focus on reducing the cost of living and addressing unemployment, particularly among the youth. Service Delivery: Ensuring efficient, reliable service delivery is a core priority. We’ll work to fix the collapse in basic services, improve infrastructure, and ensure that municipalities are well-managed and accountable to their communities.

Energy and Load Shedding: Tackling the energy crisis is critical. The DA is committed to reducing load shedding and pushing for reforms that allow for a diversified, competitive energy market, increasing the role of renewables and independent power producers. Crime and Safety: We’ll focus on strengthening law enforcement, improving police resourcing and training, and making communities safer through smart crime prevention strategies and increased accountability.

Education and Healthcare: Improving public education and healthcare systems will be key. We aim to reduce inequality in these sectors by ensuring better facilities, more support for Teachers, and improved access to quality healthcare services.

In all of this, we will be guided by the DA’s core values of Freedom, Fairness, Opportunity, and Diversity, working to ensure a prosperous and inclusive future for all South Africans.

What are you passionate about? This applies both in the political/ professional arena and personally?

I’m passionate about seeing the quality of life for South Africans improve and ensuring that our government is restructured to be more effective, efficient, and focused on getting things done for the people.

In my career, I’m driven by the vision of a thriving infrastructure sector, where the state’s assets are optimally used for the public good. I’m committed to preserving South Africa’s rich heritage and culture while ensuring that public assets generate revenue that can be reinvested into further development.

On a personal level, I enjoy travelling and spending time outdoors, whether hiking, swimming, playing tennis, or running, and I have a love for good food, wine, and music. Quality time with friends and family is also something I deeply value.

What is your message to South Africa?

My message to South Africa is one of thanks and hope. Thank you to those who voted for the Democratic Alliance and those who got me elected into Parliament. I hope that with my colleagues in the Democratic Alliance, together with those who are committed to building South Africa from within the GNU, we can improve the quality of life for all South Africans and create a government that is effective, efficient, and truly cares about the needs of its people.

I believe in the power of community, and I encourage every South African to engage, share their voices, and work collectively towards positive change. Let us embrace our diverse passions, support one another, and create a vibrant society where everyone can thrive. Together, we can build a South Africa we can all be proud of.

To learn more about this Member, visit his [profile]

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