DA welcomes Parly approval for no-confidence debate in Mapisa-Nqakula
The DA’s chief whip, Siviwe Gwarube, said if she won’t resign, she leaves them no choice but to remove her through a vote.
Picture: GCIS
CAPE TOWN - The Democratic Alliance (DA) has welcomed Parliament’s approval for a motion of no confidence to be debated in National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula.
The party’s chief whip, Siviwe Gwarube, said if she won’t resign, she leaves them no choice but to remove her through a vote.
On Tuesday, Deputy Speaker Lechesa Tsenoli officially informed the House of Mapisa-Nqakula’s special leave while she attempts to fend off arrest on corruption allegations.
Mapisa-Nqakula told Parliament she was not privy to the full extent of the investigation against her but maintains her innocence.
It’s alleged she solicited tender bribes in a previous portfolio as minister of defence.
Gwarube said that calling for a motion of no confidence was not a political move but rather about accountability.
"The leader of the legislative arm of state ought to be somebody who is beyond reproach, and not somebody who is facing 12 counts of corruption, has her house raided by the NPA and is facing possible, imminent arrest."
She said the DA has already been lobbying other parties, including the ANC, to support the motion for Mapisa-Nqakula’s removal.
"We are of the view and remain of the view the Speaker is no longer suited to hold such high office."
A date for the debate is yet to be decided in consultation with the ANC's chief whip.