In particular, ID welcomes the strong stance that was taken on peace and security issues and the resolution that a delegation be sent to the Darfur region to assess the human rights tragedy occurring there. We would motivate that this delegation be sent as soon as possible and that its recommendations are acted upon. The strong sentiments that were expressed at the Pan-African Parliament regarding the human rights tragedy are sentiments that are not only shared by the Independent Democrats but by many African people.
The Independent Democrats is also heartened by the fact that the Pan African Parliament recognized the problem of corruption and urged all of it members to join the African Parliamentary Network Against Corruption. The Independent Democrats leader Patricia de Lille, was in fact the first and only South African parliamentarian to join this network last year and all the other members of ID will be joining it shortly. The South African parliament should follow the lead of the Pan-African Parliament and urge all its member to join this important network aimed at eradicating the scourge of corruption in our country and our continent.

It is important for the Pan-African Parliament to not only be a moral voice but a voice of the African people. ID would strongly motivate for this institution and its resolutions to be informed by the feelings of all African people. ID would like to see the work of this institution publicized at a local level and that all parliamentarians are able to disseminate information at their constituency offices. At this early stage of its history, the Pan-African Parliament must ensure that it becomes thoroughly rooted in the people of this continent and that they are afforded the opportunities to share their experiences and vision for the continent. Only in this way will be able to bridge the divide between political institutions and the people that all too often exist on this continent.

I thank you.