Hon Speaker, if I were speaking as the House Chairperson, I would have been given more than three minutes, I think. I am sure the Speaker will also agree with me that today I am earning my 5% increment. [Laughter.]
Hon Speaker, hon Ministers who are here, hon Deputy Ministers and hon members, centuries ago, when the wise ones - that is, the philosophers - looked at the soul of the state, and after a long period of study, they concluded that Parliament was the heart of the state and the executive was the brain. They strongly contended that when the brain ceases to function, the body politic will still continue to struggle. However, when the heart stops beating, the body politic becomes lifeless and dies. What follows is the end of democracy and the beginning of autocracy and, eventually, anarchy.
The hon members of this House have often and on many occasions referred to Parliament as the voice of the people. Now that this House is about to rise, the question remains: Have we been that strong heart? Have we been that powerful voice of the people? Have we been that intelligent brain that is needed by the sovereign authority, the people of the Republic - particularly the poor and the marginalised majority in our land?
I hasten to admit that, looking back at the numerous sessions of this Assembly, hon members have tried to the best of their abilities to embrace the vision and mission of this Parliament. Perhaps we have not tried hard enough to bring about the common good for all as postulated in our Constitution. It is therefore virtuous to admit our political deficits as individual members and as a collective of political parties in this House and, at the same time, appreciate what Parliament has achieved this year.
We thank the leaders of all the political parties who are here, the speakership and all the Whips of all the parties, the National Assembly Table, and parliamentary services at all levels, including catering and security.
In conclusion, the IFP in this House, led by Prince Buthelezi, wishes all the members of this respectable House, including the President, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Deputy President and their families, a memorable, safe and restful festive season. I thank you. [Applause.]