Progressive Alliance Walks Out of National Assembly
Background
The Progressive Alliance, which includes the MK Party and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has been pushing for a debate on a motion of no confidence against President Cyril Ramaphosa. The parties argue that the president remains under a cloud because of the Phala Phala scandal and an ongoing impeachment process.
What Happened in the Assembly
During Thursday’s sitting, Speaker Thoko Didiza announced that the House would first address the scheduled oral questions to the president. Before the questions began, MK Party chief whip Mmabatho Nthabiseng Mokoena‑Zondi rose on a point of order. She said she had already sent a letter to the Speaker earlier that day requesting an immediate debate on the no‑confidence motion.
Reasons for the Walkout
Mokoena‑Zondi argued that it was wrong to continue with “business as usual” while the president faced serious allegations. She stated, “We can’t continue to legitimise his presidency.” The EFF chief whip, Nontando Noluntshungu, added that the House should not listen to someone who does not respect the Constitution, invoking the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle.
Speaker’s Response
Speaker Didiza acknowledged receiving the letter but said she could not suspend the order of business for that day. She explained that the notice and order of the day are agreed upon in the Programme Committee and the Chief Whips Forum. Didiza emphasized that she needed time to consider the request and would respond accordingly, but the House could not deviate from the agenda at that moment.
Constitutional Court Ruling
Two weeks prior, the Constitutional Court ruled that the 129I parliamentary rule—used to remove a president—was inconsistent with the Constitution. The court ordered that the Independent Panel’s report on the Phala Phala matter be referred to an Impeachment Committee. The panel, chaired by retired Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo, had found prima facie evidence that President Ramaphosa violated the Constitution and other laws.
Impeachment Committee Setup
Following the judgment, Speaker Didiza announced on Wednesday the formation of a 31‑member Impeachment Committee to give effect to the Section 89 removal process. She also referred the invalidated 129I rule to a subcommittee on rules for further processing before it could be ratified by the National Assembly.
ANC’s View
ANC MP Tshilidzi Bethuel Munyai, speaking in place of the majority party chief whip, said the Constitutional Court had not made a negative finding against the president. He argued that the court’s decision concerned parliamentary rules and processes, not Ramaphosa’s personal conduct. His remarks were met with heckling from opposition benches.
Aftermath and Next Steps
After Didiza refused to allow further points of order and insisted the sitting continue with the president’s questions, members of the EFF, MK Party, and the African Transformation Movement (ATM) staged a walkout. The Speaker warned that any MP who spoke without being recognized would be evicted from the chamber.
Conclusion
The walkout highlights the growing tension between opposition parties and parliamentary leadership over how to handle allegations against the president. While the Speaker maintains that procedural rules must be followed, the Progressive Alliance insists that accountability cannot wait for routine business. The establishment of the Impeachment Committee suggests the process is moving forward, but the debate over its timing and conduct is likely to continue in the coming weeks.
