Mapisa-Nqakula Denies Arrest Reports And Demands Full Disclosure of Case Information

Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has denied recent reports suggesting that she has been arrested. On Friday, she clarified that she was at her home with her family after filing an urgent court application challenging the search operation conducted at her house.

The search was carried out by the Investigating Directorate (ID) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

Legal Action and Document Demands

Mapisa-Nqakula stated that she has demanded all documents related to her case from the ID. Her legal team filed papers in court, challenging both the manner in which the search and seizure warrant was obtained and the operation itself.

She asserts her right to full disclosure of all material information relating to the case, including the full docket, in order to prepare her defense against what she regards as baseless allegations.

Denial of Arrest and Media Speculation

Despite media speculation, various outlets including SABC News, eNCA, and Newzroom Afrika, the Office of the Speaker confirmed that Mapisa-Nqakula has not been arrested.

Mike Ramagoma, representing the Speaker, stated that she and her family are currently at home and have had no interaction with the NPA ID since the search and seizure operation on March 19.

Ramagoma further emphasized that Mapisa-Nqakula has been subjected to a trial by the media. He expressed concern that details of the case against her have already been leaked to the media, leaving her without a means to defend herself against these public allegations.

In her court papers, the Speaker urges the NPA to provide her with the case details, as she believes she is being unfairly tried by the media without an opportunity to respond.

Special Leave and Communication with Parliament

It is important to note that Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula is currently on special leave. She has communicated this decision to both the Secretary to Parliament, Xolile George, and President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The Speaker’s legal team will continue to pursue the court application and seek the necessary information to mount a proper defense against the allegations. Mapisa-Nqakula maintains her innocence and looks forward to addressing the matter in a fair and just manner.