Dr. John Hlophe, Parliamentary Leader of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, has requested a secret ballot for the motion of no confidence in President Cyril Ramaphosa. Image: GCIS.
(The Post News)– The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has formally asked the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, to allow Members of Parliament to vote in a secret ballot where they will decide in a motion of no confidence against President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The party confirmed it submitted the motion last week, pointing to what it calls a “breakdown in governance,” rising crime, mismanagement of the economy, and growing instability in leadership as its main reasons. MK Party leader in Parliament, Dr. John Hlophe, made the request in writing on Friday, urging the Speaker to allow MPs to vote without having to reveal their choices. According to Hlophe, through a secret ballot, MPs will be able to carry out their constitutional duties without fear of reprisal or harassment.
He cited the 2017 Constitutional Court judgment in United Democratic Movement v Speaker of the National Assembly, which gives the Speaker discretion to permit a secret ballot based on the circumstances. That ruling by the Constitutional Court underlined the balance between transparency and protecting MPs’ right to vote according to their conscience, especially in high-stakes matters like this. Hlophe argued that this vote qualifies.
Additionally, in the letter, Hlophe noted that a secret ballot is justified by the need to prevent intimidation, preserve the integrity of the voting process, and guarantee that the results fairly represent the members’ will.
The MK Party hasn’t minced its words in criticizing Ramaphosa. In its statement, the party said his leadership has “allowed the country to unravel,” accusing him of turning a blind eye to crime and security failings. They’re also up in arms about his decision to retain Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, even after Mchunu was placed on leave pending investigations.
The party’s frustration has been fuelled by recent comments from KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who alleged political meddling in police affairs. According to the MK Party, keeping Mchunu in office, even temporarily, undermines the independence of law enforcement. They’re also taking the president to the Constitutional Court, challenging both Mchunu’s leave and the appointment of Professor Firoz Cachalia as acting police minister.
Hlophe has asked the Speaker to deal with the matter urgently and in consultation with all relevant stakeholders. “We request that this submission be considered in line with the Constitution, the Rules of the National Assembly, and relevant judicial precedents,” his letter reads.
About the Author
