Democracy

Question 1

Define Democracy, Petition and Rule of law

Answer 1

-Democracy means a gov. in which the surpreme power is held by the people and used by them directly
-Petition means a formal request seeking a court order and stating the reasons why it is needed.
-R.O.L is the highest authority in S.A which ensures equal protection of rights and are the laws obeyed by everyone

Question 2

What are the principals of Democracy?

Answer 2

-Regular free and fair elections, Rule of law, Protection of Human Rights, Separation of powers, Open and transparent gov., Accountable gov., Citizen’s participation

Question 3

What is the importance of R.O.L and its benefits

Answer 3

-Protects human rights
-Keeps citizens safe
-Solves a lot of problems that could emanate from lawlessness
-Helps the country and its citizens
-Benefits include Accountability, Fairness, Transparency, Accessibility, Decision-making

Question 4

What are the levels of government and how do they address the country?

Answer 4

1. National Authority- National Assembly
   -Deals with law in the country
   -Decides on national policies
2. Provincial Authority- 9 Provinces
   -Legislature: 30-90 elected members
   -Public servants: teachers, nurses, doctors etc
3. Local Authority- Municipalities
   -283 Municipalities
   -Make by-laws
   Function: to grow local economies, infracsturure, services

Question 5

What is the law making process

Answer 5

1. An M.P or minister introduces a draft
2. Intro of the bill is approved by cabinet
3. Debated in the Houses of Parliament
4. Referred to the relevant committee
5. Published in the Gov. Gazette
6. The public can make comments via M.PS
7. Amendments are made if needed
8. Submitted again to the two Houses of Pal
9. If approved by both houses, goes to the president
10. If found to be constitutional by the president, he signs it
11. Immediately published
12. Bill becomes an Act of Parliament