at the Ou Raadsaal, circa 1890 Initially a
unicameral body, the
Volksraad was divided into
two chambers in 1890 in order to keep Boer control over state matters while still giving
Uitlanders (foreigners) — many of whom were temporarily employed in the
mining industry — a say in local affairs, in order to fend off British complaints. From 1890 the
Volksraad consisted of two houses of 24 members each. The "Second
Volksraad" had suffrage for all white males above 16 years, and had limited legislative powers in the fields of mining, road construction, copyright and certain commercial affairs, all subject to ratification by the "First
Volksraad". This was the highest authority in charge of state policy, with preference being given to fully franchised
burghers for appointment to government posts. The members of the First Volkraad were elected for four years. First Volksraad members had to be born in the state. The Second Volksraad, of the Uitlanders, was allegedly without power. == Chairmen of the Volksraad 1844–1890 ==