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FREE STATE LEGISLATURE · ABOUT US
An activist Legislature that champions democracy through law-making, oversight and public participation.
REPRESENTING THE PEOPLE OF THE FREE STATE
Working through the House and its committees.
Law-making · Oversight
Public participation
OUR DEMOCRATIC PURPOSE
Established in the democratic era that began in 1994, the Free State Legislature provides a forum for representation, debate and scrutiny of provincial government.
The Legislature brings together elected representatives to consider legislation, examine government performance and hear the concerns of communities. Its work connects decisions taken in the House with the everyday needs of Free Staters.
01 / LAW-MAKING
Members scrutinise Bills and consider whether to pass, amend or reject them within the Legislature’s constitutional powers.
02 / OVERSIGHT
Committees examine reports, budgets and evidence, and question the provincial executive about its work and the use of public resources.
03 / PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Hearings, petitions and public education provide routes for people to engage with the work of the Legislature.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR LEGISLATURE
The Legislature and the provincial executive have different responsibilities. That distinction helps the public understand where to raise a concern.
THE LEGISLATURE
Members debate and make decisions in the House. Committees examine matters in detail, gather evidence and report their findings to the House.
THE PROVINCIAL EXECUTIVE
The Premier and Members of the Executive Council lead the provincial executive. Provincial departments implement policies and deliver services, and account to the Legislature.
HOW LEGISLATION IS CONSIDERED
A Bill is introduced and scrutinised through the Legislature’s procedures, including committee consideration and public participation. The House debates and decides on the Bill. A Bill passed by the House goes to the Premier for the constitutional assent process.
LEADERSHIP & HOUSE BUSINESS
The presiding officers guide proceedings, while the whips help organise political participation in the business of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER
Presides over sittings, maintains order under the rules and provides institutional leadership.
PRESIDING OFFICER
Assists the Speaker and presides when required under the Legislature’s procedures.
COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP
Coordinates committee work and supports the effective functioning of the committee system.
HOUSE BUSINESS
Helps coordinate House business and the participation of Members, working with other whips and the presiding officers.
HOUSE BUSINESS
Assists the Chief Whip with the coordination and responsibilities of the office.
The administration, led by the Secretary to the Legislature, provides the procedural, financial, administrative and operational support that enables the institution to carry out its work.
DETAILED SCRUTINY
Committees examine departmental information, hear evidence, undertake oversight visits and consider public submissions. Their reports help the House make informed decisions.
7TH ADMINISTRATION
Find committee chairpersons, membership and support contacts, including the Committee on Petitions.
FOLLOW THE PUBLIC RECORD
Committee findings are reported to the House. Follow published documents and the programme to stay informed about parliamentary work.
PARTICIPATION & PUBLIC EDUCATION
Public education helps people understand the Legislature, their rights and the ways they can participate. Engagement should reach communities in both rural and urban areas.
BE HEARD
Use advertised hearing opportunities to share views on legislation and matters being considered.
RAISE A CONCERN
Bring a written complaint or request through the Legislature’s petitions process.
FOLLOW THE WORK
Check the published programme and contact the Legislature about meeting and attendance arrangements.
A PROVINCIAL VOICE IN NATIONAL PARLIAMENT
The National Council of Provinces provides a route for provincial interests to be considered in national parliamentary processes. The Legislature participates through its constitutional relationship with the NCOP.
OUR DIRECTION
A shared purpose guides how the Legislature works, leads and serves Free Staters.
OUR VISION
Promotion of good governance that serves the interest of Free Staters.
OUR MISSION
To ensure good governance through law making, public participation and oversight.
IntegrityLoyaltyFairnessEmpowermentInnovationCommitmentProductivityBatho PeleAccountabilityTransparencyRespectDiversityLeadershipEthicsEmpathy
Explore its representatives and committees, or contact us for help finding the right participation route.
Legislative sector
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