DA demands no confidence motion in Mapisa-Nqakula to be debated and voted on immediately

2 April 2024

The DA has written to the Deputy Speaker, Lechesa Tsenoli, to demand the immediate scheduling of the motion of no confidence against Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula. The Deputy Speaker had confirmed to the DA that the motion had been tabled last week; there is no reason for a special sitting to not be convened and the matter voted on.

Parliament has a responsibility to hold the Speaker to account; and we cannot be hamstrung by the ANC and its own processes in performing this role. Once a motion has been tabled, it has to be deliberated on and voted on without delay, the rules of the National Assembly demand.

Additionally, the DA welcomes today’s ruling by the Pretoria High Court, which dismissed Speaker Mapisa-Nqakula's bid for an interdict against her arrest. This decision underscores the urgency and necessity of proceeding with the motion of no confidence in Mapisa-Nqakula.

The court's ruling sends a clear message that the legal process must be allowed to take its course, and individuals facing serious allegations cannot evade accountability. Mapisa-Nqakula's attempt to halt her potential arrest has been rebuffed by the court, affirming the principle that no one is above the law.

Given the severity of the allegations against Mapisa-Nqakula, including 12 counts of corruption and money laundering, it is imperative that Parliament acts as a matter of urgency to address the motion of no confidence.

The integrity and credibility of the National Assembly are at stake, and South Africans deserve a Parliament that upholds the highest standards of accountability and transparency.

Issued by Siviwe Gwarube, Chief Whip of the Official Opposition, 2 April 2024