Note to Editors: Please note Dr Keeka sound bite in English
The DA in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) welcomes the ruling by provincial legislature Speaker, Nontembeko Boyce, confirming the summary suspension of 36 members of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) and one member of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) for a period of five days.
This, after the events of 15 December – during which the MKP’s Motion of No Confidence (MoNC) against Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) Premier, Thami Ntuli failed – with the actions of the 36 members nothing short of anarchy and a direct assault on our constitutional democracy.
It is the DA’s understanding that this suspension bars the affected members from entering the legislature precinct, participating in sittings, attending portfolio committee meetings, or undertaking oversight visits for the duration of the sanction. Importantly, the suspension is accompanied by a docking of salaries, amounting to approximately R8 400 per ordinary member.
While many South Africans may view this sanction as insufficient given the gravity of the misconduct, it is the maximum penalty permitted under the Rules for a first offence in terms of Rule 61 cited by the Speaker. Subsequent transgressions allow for significantly harsher sanctions.
The disorder displayed in the House on 15 December undermined the dignity, authority, and integrity of the KZN Legislature in the most egregious manner. This cannot be allowed to stand as the final word.
There are further serious allegations, which include the assault of the Speaker and threats directed at other members, including myself. These matters warrant further investigation through the Ethics Committee and, where appropriate, criminal charges through the South African Police Service. The DA will actively pursue these avenues.
The DA stands firmly behind Speaker Boyce and the decisive action she has taken. We remain committed, reliable partners within KZN’s GPU. There can be no tolerance for conduct that violates the Constitution, the rule of law, or the decorum of the Legislature.