SOUTH Africa's nine provincial legislatures have taken shape, marking the commencement of the 7th Parliament. On Saturday, 15 June Parliament hosted the first sittings of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP). The African National Congress’ Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane was elected unopposed as the chairperson of the NCOP. Mtsweni-Tsipane, who is the former premier of Mpumalanga, emphasised the need for transformative leadership, women’s inclusion, and progressive governance in the provinces. The delegates promised to fulfil their duties as permanent delegates to the NCOP or as members of their provincial legislatures to the best of their abilities.
