DA calls for Mapisa-Nqakula’s resignation amid allegations

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has submitted a formal Motion of No Confidence in (MNC) National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, who is expected to be charged with corruption and money laundering.

The party’s Chief Whip, Siviwe Gwarube, said it’s not enough that Mapisa-Nqakula took special leave; she should have resigned.

‘SHOULD HAVE RESIGNED, NOT TAKEN SPECIAL LEAVE’

“The announcement that she has taken ‘special leave’ not resigned has left us with no choice but to submit a formal motion of no confidence to be debated and voted on before the House rises and the expiration of this term,” Gwarube said on Friday.

She said that the rules of Parliament do not make provision for ‘special leave’ taken by a member by a unilateral decision. A special leave is only granted by a full sitting of the House.

“Alternatively, a member may be granted 5 days of special leave with approval from their political party. Based on the communication of the ANC last night, it would seem this is not the case,” explained Gwarube.

SPECIAL LEAVE IS NOTHING MORE THAN A COP-OUT – SAYS DA

She said the special leave was nothing more than a “cop-out” by the Speaker.

Gwarube said that in light of the fact that the Speaker may face arrest, the DA called upon the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and other law enforcement agencies to take the necessary steps to prevent Mapisa-Nqakula from leaving the country.

“She has committed to cooperating with the investigation; therefore, she cannot leave the country without facing the music,” she said.

Gwarube added: “Mapisa-Nqakula must resign or be removed through a motion of no confidence. Anything less than that will mock Parliament and, more importantly, South Africa.”