By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
National Assembly (NA) Speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, has declined requests by the United Democratic Movement (UDM) and the African Transformation Movement (ATM) for the initiation of a parliamentary action concerning allegations against President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The UDM requested a parliamentary investigation into the alleged conduct of the President, including placing him on sabbatical leave, while the ATM requested an establishment of a Section 89 committee for a removal inquiry.
Ramaphosa has been under pressure since news of the theft of a large amount of foreign currency first emerged.
The robbery came to light after former spy boss Arthur Fraser laid a criminal complaint against Ramaphosa, accusing him of kidnapping, bribery, money laundering and concealing a crime related to the alleged theft of $4 million.
Ramaphosa has denied any criminal wrongdoing.
Parliament’s spokesperson Moloto Mothapo says Mapisa-Nqakula declined UDM’s submission since it did not constitute a substantive motion.
“For Parliament to undertake such an inquiry, there must be basis in the Constitution, the law or rules which the Assembly would rely upon. The UDM has not made such a case.”
Mothapo says ATM’s request also did not constitute a substantive motion for a Section 89 enquiry to be initiated.
The rules further indicate that such a motion must be limited to a formulated and substantiated charge, and all evidence for consideration must be attached. These requirements were not complied with in the ATM’s submission.
“Further, there was no provision in the Executive Members’ Ethics Act for the referral to the National Assembly of allegations of breaches by the president.”