Jabulani Khumalo, the founder of the Umkhonto Wesizwe Party (MK Party), has assured the public of his commitment to lead the party’s members to parliament.
In an interview with Jacaranda FM News on Tuesday morning, Khumalo stated his intention to be part of the first sitting of the National Assembly on Friday morning, despite the party’s previous announcement of a boycott.
Khumalo emphasized that he is not alone in this effort. He mentioned that nearly 50 individuals from the MK Party are set to attend the parliamentary session.
This statement came after parliament cancelled flights and accommodation for the 58 MK Party members elected to parliament, following the party’s declaration of a boycott.
The MK Party had initially decided to boycott the first sitting of the National Assembly, scheduled to elect a new president, until their grievances against the election results were resolved in court.
Parliament spokesman Moloto Mothapo clarified the situation, stating that due to the MK Party’s decision not to attend the first sitting, all arrangements for accommodation and flights for the party’s elected members were cancelled.
This measure was taken to avoid unnecessary expenditure. Despite this, Khumalo reassured that the party’s members of parliament would be present for their swearing-in on the designated date.
Khumalo criticized the notion that the absence of 58 MK members would render parliament unconstituted, calling it legally misguided and embarrassing.
He stated that parliament is constituted with 400 members, as confirmed by the Independent Electoral Commission. Khumalo also addressed any fears of victimization among MK members by former MK Party president Jacob Zuma, asserting that the business of parliament would proceed as scheduled.
Khumalo expressed his determination to not let Zuma’s influence interfere with the democratic process.
He emphasized that the MK Party members must focus on representing the voters in parliament and not get drawn into the conflict between Zuma and President Cyril Ramaphosa. He concluded by reaffirming his acceptance of the election results and his commitment to serving the will of the people.