Chairperson, an activist parliament, in the view of the ACDP, would lead by its actions, and not just by its words, as hon Bapela did during question time this week when he modelled these actions by insisting that a member of the executive actually didn't run casually over a question, and that he would come back to the House with the relevant answer. I would say that was well done.
It would ensure that it is not in an ivory tower, and that citizens are aware of its authority and limitations; know who their MPs are and how they can assist them. It would, primarily, hear what people have to say, but also persistently raise awareness among all, including the most rural and poor, campaigning on citizenship expectations and encouraging people to hold leaders accountable, through relevant and people-friendly parliamentary processes. Julius Nyerere said that widespread corruption in high places breeds poverty, and we've seen this in our country and elsewhere. Thus, accountability is the hub around which the activist is activated.
An activist parliament would incline its ear to the voice of the people to discern and evaluate the heartbeat of the nation, and not serve just the privileged. It would return to the grass-roots ideology that the people shall govern, and would provide the disenfranchised and marginalised with a voice. It would advance policy that resonates with the deeply held convictions of the vast majority of citizens, and not dash the values and aspirations of many, by imposing a narrow agenda on them.
An activist parliament, not only has external implications, but should also affect us right here in the House; for instance, the German parliament buildings source 100% renewable energy. An activist parliament will use our abundant sunshine and wind. It's a pity the hot air created by MPs, at times, doesn't count. Such a move would boost renewable energy, research and application, bringing down the costs of alternative energy, and could take solar telephones, traffic lights, street lights and electricity, without miles of wires, to rural people and those outside the grid. Thank you.