DPD delegation visits South Africa

JAKARTA: A delegation from Indonesia's Regional Representatives Council (DPD) has been in South Africa for a one- week visit to study the South African National Council of Provinces (NCOP), which is similar to DPD.

The Indonesian delegation is expected to learn about NCOP's experience in providing more effective representation for people in the provinces.

NCOP was established in 1997 following constitutional changes aimed at giving regional aspirations a voice in the new democratic life of the country, according to a statement by the South Africa Embassy here on Tuesday.

The delegation, consisting of five DPD members and three members of the Secretariat-General of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), is led by DPD Chairman Ginandjar Kartasasmita.

The visit was organized by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA). -- JP