Lerato Mbhiza
The Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, has taken special leave from her post in light of recent developments where earlier this week, her home was raided by the Hawks in connection with bribery allegations during her tenure as Minister of Defence
It’s alleged she received over R2 million in tender bribes from a contractor to the Defence Force while she was the Minister.
Although no formal arrest warrant has been issued, Mapisa-Nqakula has expressed her willingness to comply and cooperate with the authorities.
In a statement on Thursday, she said, “My lawyers have, however, proactively informed the National Prosecution Authority of my readiness to comply and cooperate should the need arise.”
Despite maintaining her innocence following Tuesday’s raid, she has decided to step aside from her position.
This decision means that she will not attend the 148th session of the Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland.
Mapisa-Nqakula has informed President Cyril Ramaphosa, Clerk of Parliament Xolile George and the ruling African National Congress party of her decision to take a leave of absence.
The ANC issued a statement saying it noted “Comrade Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula’s special leave from Parliament due to law enforcement actions and allegations against her”.
“The ANC will enforce its integrity and step-aside policies based on the facts as they arise”.
The DA has welcomed the reports of the imminent arrest of the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, the party said in a statement.
DA Siviwe Gwarube MP Chief Whip of the Official Opposition said the party welcomed that law enforcement agencies like the NPA and Hawks are starting to act without fear or favour and that an individual’s political status does not shield them from accountability.
“We call on these agencies to move speedily on both the matters of Mapisa-Nqakula and the Deputy President, Paul Mashatile.
This now reinforces our call for the Speaker to step down immediately. We are now looking at the Leader of the Legislative Arm of State not only accused but possibly arrested and charged for corruption. “
This week Parliament’s joint ethics committee also committed to completing all pending investigations before the end of the Parliamentary term, including a complaint against Mapisa-Nqakula.
Mapisa-Nqakula said her decision to take leave from her job reaffirms her commitment to upholding the integrity of her office, and her full cooperation with the legal process.
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