Parliament is Yours. Let’s Act Like It.

This year’s International Day of Parliamentarism carries the theme “Citizen Monitoring and Citizen Engagement” – and it couldn’t be more relevant. Because the truth is: Parliament only works when people are watching, asking questions, and pushing for better.

Parliament isn’t just politics. It’s power.

Parliament is meant to represent us. It’s the engine room of democracy – where laws are made, power is held to account, and the people’s voice should be loudest. But let’s be honest: most South Africans feel disconnected from what actually happens in those chambers.

It’s the engine room of democracy – where laws are made, power is held to account, and the people’s voice should be loudest.

That’s where ParliMeter comes in. It’s a public platform that tracks parliamentary performance, everything from MP attendance and bill progress to oversight work in committees. It makes Parliament visible, and that matters. Because when citizens have access to the right information, they’re far more likely to engage – and far less likely to be ignored.

Democracy needs more than votes. It needs us.

Citizen engagement doesn’t have to mean protests or petitions (though there’s a place for that). It can be as simple as knowing how your MP is performing, sharing that info with others, or writing to a portfolio committee when something matters to you.

...public accountability doesn’t come from silence – it comes from citizens who care enough to speak up.

Democracy is stronger when it’s participatory. And public accountability doesn’t come from silence – it comes from citizens who care enough to speak up.

We asked a few thought leaders why this day matters – and what citizen engagement means to them. Here’s what they shared:

Why does Parliament Matter

Daryl Swanepoel – Inclusive Society Institute

“The International Day of Parliamentarism is important because it highlights the vital role of parliaments in safeguarding democracy, ensuring accountability and giving voice to the people in shaping the laws that govern them.”

Robyn Pasensie – OUTA

“Parliament is really the engine room of our government and our democracy. No law, new or amended, can pass without the say so of Parliament. If that weren’t enough Parliament also acts as a watchdog on the functions and powers of the executive, making sure they perform their duties in line with our laws and the interests of our people. The International Day of Parliament is crucial then for highlighting the role that Parliament plays in our freedoms and democracy. For the public this means that we should look to Parliament as the vehicle through which our interests are represented, protected and engaged with. Parliament is for and by the people.”

Prof Pregala Solosh Pillay – ACCERUS

 “Nearly two thousand years ago, the Roman poet Juvenal posed a question that remains strikingly relevant today: Quis custodiet ipsos custodes? Who will guard the guardians themselves? In modern parliamentary democracies, this question underscores a fundamental principle: the need for oversight and accountability.

Parliaments, as the elected voice of the people, are entrusted with the critical role of safeguarding democratic governance. Through checks and balances, they ensure that executive power is exercised transparently, responsibly, and in the public interest. Without such vigilance, the foundations of democracy risk being eroded by unchecked authority.

Parliamentary oversight is not merely a procedural function; it is the bedrock of democratic accountability. It weaves together the ideals of transparency, responsibility, and public trust, compelling governments to justify their actions and decisions.

This year’s theme could not be timelier. In an era where citizen engagement and participatory governance are increasingly vital, amplifying the voices of the people in decision-making processes strengthens democracy at both national and global levels. It is through this inclusive dialogue that democratic institutions remain resilient, responsive, and truly representative.”

Christopher Scholtz – The Green Connection

“The International Day of Parliament serves as a vital reminder of the fundamental role that parliaments play in upholding democracy and representing the voices of the people. It is a day to recognize the importance of citizen engagement and monitoring to hold parliamentarians accountable, ensuring transparency and accountability in decision-making processes. As Nelson Mandela once said, “A critical, independent and investigative press is the lifeblood of any democracy.” By celebrating this day, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting and protecting democratic values and principles, while encouraging active participation from citizens in shaping the future of our societies. Together, let us strive for a democracy that truly reflects the will of its people.”

Gregor Jaecke – KAS Office South Africa

“The International Day of Parliament reminds us that strong, representative parliaments are essential to democracy. Through effective oversight, they hold governments accountable, protect citizens’ rights, and ensure transparency. Supporting parliamentary work means strengthening the voice of the people and the rule of law.”

Paul Hoffman SC – Institute for Accountability in Southern Africa

“The participative nature of our constitutional democracy, so different from being passive subjects in the past, renders the work involved in citizen monitoring and citizen engagement with parliament vital to the success of the democratic project in South Africa. Holding those in power to account for their decisions and actions is essential to the success of the nation.”

Rashaad Alli – Parliamentary Monitoring Group

"World Parliament Day serves as a potent reminder that democracy is a continuous process that requires the participation and empowerment of all individuals. It honours the essential function that parliaments fulfil in crafting just and inclusive societies through legislation, representation, and oversight. When citizens take an active role—by observing proceedings, expressing concerns, and holding their representatives accountable—they invigorate democratic institutions. Their involvement transforms parliaments from remote centres of authority into responsive mechanisms of public will, ensuring that governance remains transparent, accountable, and aligned with the actual needs of society."

Whilst we observe the International Day of Parliament, we should remain cognizant that Parliament operates continuously. Access to and utilisation of Parliamentary information remain paramount to achieve accountability and promote active engagement.

What Can You Do With This Info? Plenty.

• Use ParliMeter to check what your MPs are doing.
• Ask questions.
• Share the stats.
• Join the conversation.

Because Parliament is meant to work for you – but it won’t if you’re not in the room.