By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Photo Credit: Edrea du Toit.
The controversial speaker of the Western Cape provincial legislature Masizole Mnqasela has been temporary suspended from DA activities with immediate effect, the party announced Saturday.
The decision to suspend him is attributed to an investigation report constituted by the DA’s Federal Legal Commission (FLC).
“The FLC stated that there is sufficient credibility in the allegations relating to irregularities pertaining to subsistence, travel and entertainment allowance claims.”
The party’s Western Cape provincial executive committee (PEC) met on Friday to decide whether or not to suspend Mnqasela.
“The PEC’s decision to suspend is based on the findings of an investigation report by the DA’s Federal Legal Commission that there is sufficient credibility in the allegations relating to irregularities pertaining to subsistence, travel and entertainment allowance claims.”
The party said Mnqasela was given an opportunity to provide reasons why he should not be suspended, which he did.
The party’s Western Cape chairperson, Jaco Londt, said: After careful consideration, the Party decided to move to suspension. It is important to note that there is a clear difference between party and government processes. The DA is able to apply its mind and act on internal matters that are formally brought to its attention.
Londt said the party was not allowed to interfere with the processes of any government, nor any external investigations such as that of the Hawks or police, which must run their own course.
“Upon its conclusion, any reports or findings emanating from such processes will also be considered for possible further steps.
“We are aware that there are currently internal processes ongoing against other members, which the party will act upon as soon as the formal report is tabled,” he added.”
The DA has a zero-tolerance approach to corruption, and when evidence-based allegations arise, we hold our office-bearers to account, without fear or favour.