NCOP Brings Parliament to Stilfontein for Critical Oversight in Matlosana and JB Marks
- Karen Scheepers
- 2 minutes ago
- 2 min read
The National Council of Provinces (NCOP) officially launched its high-impact "Taking Parliament to the People" programme today, Tuesday, 12 May 2026, at the Spirit Word House in Stilfontein. Running from today until Friday, 15 May, the NCOP is urging all community members from Matlosana and JB Marks to utilize this window of opportunity to engage directly with the government. The initiative represents a significant move to bring the machinery of national government directly to the doorsteps of residents within the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District.
Hosted under the banner “Celebrating 30 Years of the Constitution: Deepening Participatory Democracy for Service Delivery,” this week offers residents a rare platform to confront elected officials, including NCOP delegates, Cabinet Ministers, and provincial leaders—regarding persistent challenges facing their specific wards and neighborhoods.
Localized Focus on Infrastructure and Rights
The sessions are designed to tackle the most pressing issues affecting local households. Key discussions and oversight visits will prioritize:
Water and Sanitation: Addressing supply interruptions and infrastructure maintenance in local townships.
Roads and Electricity: Evaluating the progress of road repairs and the stability of the local power grid.
Human Settlements: Reviewing housing backlogs and the quality of recent housing projects.
Healthcare and Economic Development: Identifying opportunities for local job creation and improving local clinic services.
Direct Government Services for Residents
In an effort to turn the event into a "one-stop shop" for civic needs, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and various government departments have deployed units to the Spirit Word House site. Residents can currently access essential services on-site, including the certification of documents, commissioning of affidavits, and applications for identity documents and social grants. Voter registration assistance is also being provided by participating departments.
The North West PROVJOINT, a combined security force, is maintaining a high-visibility presence to ensure the safety of all participants and to facilitate the smooth flow of the daily proceedings, which run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Presidential Keynote and Public Accountability
The week of intense public engagement will reach its peak on Friday, 15 May, when President Cyril Ramaphosa arrives in Stilfontein to deliver a keynote address during a special plenary session. This session is expected to provide a roadmap for how national government intends to intervene in local service delivery failures and bolster the rights enshrined in the Constitution.
With transport provided throughout the district, the programme serves as a vital constitutional exercise in cooperative governance. It is a critical moment for the public of Matlosana and JB Marks to move beyond grievances and participate in the active oversight of those responsible for the development of their communities.
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