Madam Speaker, Comrade President, Deputy President and hon members, I wish to start by congratulating the Speaker and saying welcome to you, ma'am. We are ready to serve under your guidance and leadership. Allow me also to confirm what you said earlier, that we must thank the people of our country for renewing our mandate in a free and fair 5th general election confirming our democratic credentials in the nations of the world. [Applause.]
Secondly, allow me to thank the ANC, through our President and Deputy President, for trusting me as its candidate, now confirmed by you, hon members, to be Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly. Allow me also, Madam Speaker, specifically to thank the President for having fielded me in the past two years or so in the executive, giving me invaluable experience which I hope will serve a very useful purpose in conducting our oversight responsibility.
It will be a singular honour to serve you, members, and together to serve the citizens of our country with honour, respect and diligence. The majority of our people, especially those who still suffer the consequences of inequality, poverty and unemployment despite the significant progress we have made so far, expect no less from us. Thank you very much. [Applause.]