 |
Frene DzhinvalaSpeaker of the National Assembly of South Africa
Country:
 South Africa |
Content:
- Frene Ginwala: A Legal Eagle and South Africa's Speaker
- Legal and Journalistic Career
- Return to South Africa
- Political Career
- Speaker of the National Assembly (2004-2009)
- Retirement and Legacy
Frene Ginwala: A Legal Eagle and South Africa's Speaker
Early Life and EducationFrene Ginwala was born in 1954 in Johannesburg, South Africa. She pursued a law degree, earning an LL.B. from the University of London. She furthered her studies at Oxford University, where she completed a doctorate in law.
Legal and Journalistic Career
After graduating from Oxford, Ginwala worked as a barrister in the United Kingdom for several years. She then transitioned to journalism, covering various African countries.
Return to South Africa
In 1991, Ginwala returned to South Africa, which had just ended the apartheid regime. She immediately became actively involved in the African National Congress (ANC).
Political Career
Within the ANC, Ginwala held leadership positions, including head of research and chairperson of the Commission on Gender Empowerment. She was also instrumental in establishing the ANC Women's League.
Speaker of the National Assembly (2004-2009)
In 2004, Ginwala was elected as the Speaker of the National Assembly of South Africa, a five-year term that she served with distinction. She presided over the passage of approximately 500 new laws, shaping the legal framework of the post-apartheid era.
Retirement and Legacy
After the end of her parliamentary term, Ginwala announced her intention to depart from politics. However, the ANC's National Executive Committee nominated her for a second term as Speaker, which she accepted.
Ginwala remains a respected figure in South African politics, known for her legal acumen, political experience, and unwavering commitment to the ANC and its ideals.
