The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for an investigation into National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula following corruption allegations during her tenure as defence minister.
The party has referred the matter to the ethics committee, stating that the accusations made by a whistleblower are gravely concerning and require immediate and thorough investigation.
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If the ethics committee agrees to investigate the DA’s complaint against Mapisa-Nqakula, she will be under investigation by two parliamentary committees.
The powers and privileges committee had previously written to her, asking for an explanation regarding alleged governance breaches related to the salary of parliament’s CEO, Xolile George. Mapisa-Nqakula has until March 4 to respond to the powers and privileges committee.
The Sunday Times recently reported explosive allegations against Mapisa-Nqakula, revealing a high-level investigation into claims that she solicited and received up to R2.3 million in cash, delivered in gift bags by defence industry businesswoman Nombasa Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu, the wife of a general in the military health service.
The DA’s chief whip, Siviwe Gwarube, emphasised the importance of holding those guilty of corrupt activities accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Gwarube stated that corruption undermines the foundations of democracy and erodes public trust in institutions.
The allegations against Mapisa-Nqakula represent a serious breach of public trust and require swift and decisive action.
The DA is committed to upholding the highest standards of accountability, transparency, and integrity in public office. Gwarube stressed that parliament, as the cornerstone of South Africa’s democracy, cannot be presided over by an individual embroiled in a corruption scandal.
The speaker of the National Assembly holds a position of immense responsibility and any perception of corruption undermines the credibility and effectiveness of parliament in serving the people of South Africa.
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Mapisa-Nqakula has denied involvement in alleged corrupt activities during her tenure as defence minister. She expressed deep concern about the allegations and believes that investigations should be conducted with utmost diligence and respect for due process.
Her office stated that throughout her public service career, she has upheld the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct, advocating against corruption as a direct threat to democracy and good governance. Mapisa-Nqakula has vowed to fully cooperate with any formal investigation and maintains her innocence.
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