His argument was that it was desirable for the electorate to watch live debates in order to make informed decisions at election time. It was a strong and legitimate argument that deserves the support of everyone. We are all aware of live debates aired by TV stations across the world. Just next door in South Africa, the government has dedicated one of its channels - a whole channel - to parliamentary debates that are broadcast live or recorded.
This accords the electorate the opportunity to hear and see what goes on in the National Assembly - in their name - without having to travel to parliament buildings. In the United Kingdom, for another example, Sky News airs live debates every Wednesday with the Prime Minister fielding questions from Members of the House. The debates run for an hour and can best be described as lively, the adjective the current Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Margaret Nasha used, when she occupied that seat four years ago. Then, Nasha stated that she wanted to lead a parliament much characterised by lively debates. Indeed, we are on that route.
