Cape Town:The Joint Standing Committee on the Financial Management of Parliament has welcomed recent progress in Parliament's performance and efforts to enhance executive accountability. However, the committee expressed concerns regarding delays in the finalization of the Integrated Security Strategy.

According to Parliament of South Africa, the committee received a briefing from the parliamentary administration on the institution's performance during the second quarter of the 2026/27 financial year. This included a mid-year assessment and updates on the institutional transformation programme. Members of the committee voiced worries about reported security breaches at Parliament, which is considered a national key point. The Secretary to Parliament, Mr. Xolile George, confirmed some breaches and explained that steps are being taken to address them in collaboration with the South African Police Service, State Security Agency, and Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.

The committee emphasized the importance of robust security arrangements due to Parliament's significant status and the potential risks associated with security failures. Co-Chairperson Ms. Sanny Ndhlovu urged the administration to meet security targets for the 2026/27 financial year and highlighted the need to address outstanding targets to strengthen the institution's capacity for lawmaking, oversight, and public engagement. The institution achieved 12 out of 17 targets in the second quarter, with the Integrated Security Strategy noted as lagging behind.

There was also an improvement in the response to parliamentary questions in the National Assembly, with a 5% increase in responding to oral questions and over 20% for written questions. The National Council of Provinces maintained a 100% response rate to oral questions. However, the committee stressed the need for more focus on the substance of responses and the implementation of House resolutions.

The committee was informed of ongoing developments in an Accountability Standards Framework and central tracking mechanisms to ensure timely and substantive responses from the executive. Additionally, discussions on enforcement mechanisms for non-compliance with parliamentary rules are underway, with proposals expected by the end of January next year. Concerns were also raised about vacancies in the Parliamentary Budget Office, including the Director's position, with the Chairperson committing to address this issue with the relevant structures.