Demand accountability from politicians
BRYANSTON- Founder of Direct Democracy SA Jim Powell believes when a person votes they decide who is employed in government.
His approach to voting was communicated in a presentation at the Free Market Foundation in Bryanston. Powell believes that the current political system is better than pre-1994, but “lacks accountability”.
He explained to the audience that they, and every person living in South Africa, can contribute to change as a voter.
“Voters are the shareholders of their government and employers of politicians,” said Powell.
Powell also concentrated on the use of control in communities, and pushed residents to approach ward councillors in their areas and ask them to commit to direct democracy.
“I am not talking about micro-management, but [just] a sense of control. We cannot control parties directly, only request them to be involved or change,” explained Powell.
He urged the community to act and get involved in making a difference.
“Voters do not have a say in the rules of the government, however if we dislike what the law says, we can create petitions,” added Powell.
Powell believes direct democracy will change the way the country is run. Each member of the audience was presented with a contract explaining the responsibility of direct democracy, and was asked to approach individuals in government to commit to being accountable for their actions.
The contract included duties such as:
- I recognise that I am effectively an employee of voters;
- I recognise that the voters pay my salary through payment of taxes and rates;
- I recognise that the current system does not put the voters in control and therefore I commit myself to regular and effective consultation with the voting public through public meetings and continuous communication with the press, radio stations or in person;
- I will only act in accordance to the best interest of the voters who elected me, who may be polled by means of a referendum similar in format to that used for petitions;
- I will ensure that the wishes of my constituency are effectively communicated and advocated for, in and at all levels of government.
Details: www.directdemocracy.org.za
