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ActionSA welcomes the Gauteng Legislature’s appointment of ActionSA’s John Moodey as the Chairperson of the provincial Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA). 

Moodey, with his extensive history of public service, having previously served as a member of the provincial legislature from 2004 until 2020, brings invaluable skills and insight to the committee to ensure executive accountability. 

The role of a SCOPA Chairperson is essential, especially within the context of this coalition in the province. A strong government needs a counterbalancing opposition force that leverages the considerable powers of a SCOPA Chairperson to hold the government to account, including the ability to subpoena government officials, political office bearers, and state vendors.

ActionSA offered to chair the provincial Standing Committees on Public Accounts in accordance with the established convention that this role be led by an opposition party. This decision was made in the context of ActionSA's position as a constructive opposition, with no agreement with the incumbent coalition, and with the understanding that ActionSA will be a tough opposition. 

It is evident that this new coalition in the province needs to be held accountable by a strong, rational opposition. ActionSA will fulfil this role without fear or favour to ensure that any corrupt activities are prohibited, and public money is spent towards service delivery. 

Issued by ActionSA Gauteng Caucus Leader Funzi Ngobeni