Chairperson, the institution of traditional leaders is an integral part of our society. If appropriately utilised, it may bring value to our people, because it is a link between formal institutions of state and our rural informal communities. Our Constitution requires that governance structures give cognisance to the principles of nonsexism, co- operative governance between the legislatures and the houses, nation- building, unity and peace among the houses and traditional communities.
There is no question about enhancing traditions and culture. The Bill also satisfies another long-standing vacuum, namely giving serious attention to the lot of the rural people of our country. The establishment of the House allows for it to participate in international and national programmes geared towards the development of rural communities. It also has the power to participate in national initiatives meant to monitor, review and evaluate government programmes in rural communities.
The code of conduct in Schedule C compels members of the House to perform the functions of their office in good faith and in an honest, nondiscriminatory and transparent manner, and to act at all times in the best interests of the House in such a way that the credibility and integrity of the House are not compromised.
The fact that traditional leaders have always exercised authority in their areas in a traditional manner does not mean that our constitutional dispensation must not be allowed to hold sway. [Time expired.] Thank you very much. [Applause.]