Former North West Education MEC Viola Motsumi has been formally elected as the Speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature.
Motsumi becomes the eighth person to hold the position and, notably, the first former Deputy Speaker to ascend to the role.
During Tuesday’s vote in Mahikeng, Motsumi secured 25 votes, defeating EFF candidate Matshidiso Botswe.
In her maiden speech, Motsumi pledged to prioritise the interests of the people above political considerations, in line with constitutional values.
“Oversight is not hostility. Accountability is not an act of opposition, and scrutiny is not disrespect. A strong Legislature does not weaken government — it helps government govern better. I will seek to make this House larger than any one of us: more democratic, more accountable, more accessible, more effective, and more worthy of the people of the province,” Motsumi said.
She further pledged to hold the Executive accountable and promised robust oversight of all departments and government entities.
Motsumi also urged Members of the Provincial Legislature to work together to fulfil the government’s mandate, saying such unity would strengthen the Legislature’s work and ensure it serves the people with humility, dignity and integrity.
At the conclusion of the Special Sitting, Motsumi presided over the swearing-in of EFF member Rosina Komane, who fills the seat left vacant following the death of Primrose Bogatsu in July.
