Enhancing Transparency and Accountability: Information Regulator’s PAIA Compliance Assessments on Political Parties

by
1 min read
south africa information regulator

The South African Information Regulator has taken a major step towards increasing transparency and accountability within the country’s political parties. In a recent announcement, the Regulator revealed plans to conduct a series of assessments of political parties’ compliance with the Promotion of Access to Information Act 2, 2000 (PAIA).

Assessments to Begin in May 2023

Scheduled to take place between May 19 and June 7, 2023, the assessments will cover all political parties represented in the South African Parliament. The assessments are part of the Regulator’s Annual Performance Plan 2023/2024, which was presented to the Justice and Correctional Services Portfolio Committee. The first political party to be assessed will be the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) on May 19, 2023.

PAIA Amendment

The amendment to PAIA, which came into effect on April 1, 2021, resulted from the Constitutional Court’s judgment in the My Vote Counts NPC v Minister of Justice and Correctional Services and Another [2018] ZACC 17 case. Under this amendment, political parties and independent candidates are now required to record, preserve, and make available information about their private funding.

South Africa is one of the very few countries worldwide that includes political parties in its access to information regime. This means that individuals have the right to request access to information held by a political party if such information is required for exercising any of their constitutional rights, particularly the right to vote.

Strengthening Transparency and Accountability

The decision to include political parties in PAIA assessments was made to strengthen transparency within political parties. This decision is particularly significant given the forthcoming 2024 National and Provincial elections. According to Adv. Pansy Tlakula, Chairperson of the Regulator, the Regulator’s assessment will focus on several areas of compliance, including the designation or delegation of Deputy Information Officer/s (DIOs), registration of Information Officer (IO) and DIOs with the Regulator, development and availability of PAIA manuals, and the creation and maintenance of information related to political party donations.

Moreover, the Regulator will conduct onsite inspections at political party offices. This financial year, the Regulator will also assess other public and private bodies, including universities, national and provincial government departments, and JSE-listed companies.

Drive towards Compliance

Historically, PAIA compliance rates have been low, with many organizations reluctant to provide information. Such non-compliance undermines the constitutional right of access to information. The Regulator aims to ensure meaningful compliance with PAIA by various institutions and promote transparency and accountability across different sectors of society. This initiative is essential for strengthening democracy and upholding the principles of good governance in South Africa.

Tags:

You might be interested in

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

sewer pipe replacement critical infrastructure
Previous Story

Promoting a Healthier Future: Examining Cape Town’s Ambitious Sewer Pipe Replacement Project

rand merchant bank south africa
Next Story

Rand Merchant Bank’s Launch in New York: A Testament to South Africa’s Resilience and Investment Potential

Latest from Blog

h e

Combatting Heart Disease: The Groundbreaking Work of Western Cape’s Hospitals

The Western Cape’s Tygerberg Hospital, Groote Schuur Hospital, and Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital have performed almost 10,000 heart surgeries in response to South Africa’s ongoing struggle against heart disease. Heart disease remains the primary cause of death in South Africa, and these hospitals are crucial in addressing this healthcare crisis. The success of these interventions is dependent on the collaboration of multidisciplinary teams across the hospitals, providing patients with the best possible outcomes.

w e

Reeling from the Wrath of Nature: Western Cape’s Agricultural Sector Struggles with Losses

The agricultural sector in the Western Cape region of South Africa has suffered extensive damage in recent storms, with preliminary estimates putting losses at R1.4 billion. The Cape Winelands region was hit particularly hard, with power supplies disrupted and agricultural workers facing an uncertain future. The South African National Defence Force has been requested to assist with repair and recovery efforts, but a lengthy process of rebuilding lies ahead.

d i

Bridging the Digital Divide: South Africa’s Path to Technological Inclusivity

South Africa is embracing digital transformation and striving to bridge the digital divide, with a penetration rate of 72.3% among its 60.14 million people. The SA Connect Project is a key initiative designed to increase broadband penetration and connectivity across the country, with the government aiming to offer internet access to 80% of the population within the next three years. Despite these advancements, South Africa still ranks 136th out of 233 countries in terms of expensive mobile data plans, and the government is examining policy instruments aimed at reducing the cost of communication.

c o

Preserving the African Lion: South Africa’s Pledge to Conservation and Animal Welfare

South Africa’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment has announced a draft notice that bans certain activities involving African lions, highlighting the government’s dedication to the protection and welfare of these animals. The decision is the result of a highlevel panel’s recommendations, and it is consistent with the White Paper on Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa’s Biodiversity. The proposed prohibition is limited to the establishment or registration of new captive breeding facilities, commercial exhibition facilities, rehabilitation facilities, or sanctuaries for live African lions. The public is encouraged to submit comments on the Notice.

n a

Strengthening the National Treasury’s Leadership

The National Treasury has appointed Ms. Mmakgoshi Lekhethe as Deputy DirectorGeneral: Asset and Liability Management, and Mr. Christopher Axelson as Acting Deputy DirectorGeneral: Tax and Financial Sector Policy. Lekhethe has been with the National Treasury since 1996, while Axelson joined in 2012 after working in the UK. Their appointments strengthen the National Treasury’s leadership team and ensure the organization’s ongoing success in managing South Africa’s finances and promoting economic stability. Colleagues have expressed confidence in the new appointees, citing their expertise, knowledge, and commitment to their work.