…By Roland Peterson for TDPel Media.
Parliament Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has refused to meet with suspended Public Protector Advocate Busiswe Mkhwebane to discuss allegations of extortion by members of the African National Congress (ANC).
Mkhwebane had accused three prominent ANC committee members, including Chairperson Qubudile Dyantyi, of attempting to extort money from her to influence the investigation into her eligibility to hold office.
The Speaker advised Mkhwebane to lodge a formal complaint with the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests to address the alleged corruption in the Section 194 Committee investigation.
Denial of Extortion Allegations and Threats of Legal Action
After the allegations of extortion surfaced, those implicated, including Chairperson Qubudile Dyantyi, ANC Chief Whip Pemmy Majodina, and Tina Joemat-Pettersson, denied the claims and threatened legal action.
The case has also been reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for investigation.
Speaker Directs Public Protector to File Complaint with Ethics Committee
In response to Mkhwebane’s request for a meeting, Speaker Mapisa-Nqakula directed her to file a complaint with the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests.
The Speaker emphasized that, given the involvement of Members of Parliament, it was appropriate to follow the procedures outlined in the Code of Ethical Conduct and Disclosure of Members’ Interests for Assembly and Permanent Council Members.
The Speaker stressed the importance of maintaining impartiality throughout the process.
ANC Secretary-General’s Response
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula stated that if the allegations were substantiated, the party would take action accordingly.
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