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Opposition parties are baying for the resignation of Parliament Speaker Nosiviwe
Mapisa-Nqakula following allegations that she received R2.3 million in cash bribes
from a logistics company during her tenure as Defence Minister.
“Such blatant disregard for ethical conduct and the rule of law cannot be tolerated,”
stated the Economic Freedom Fighters, which will report Mapisa-Nqakula to the
Ethics Committee over the claims.
According to an affidavit by Nombasa Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu of Umkhombe Marine, the
company delivered millions in “gift bags” to Mapisa-Nqakula between 2016 and 2019.
In return, Umkhombe Marine was awarded SANDF tenders exceeding R200 million.
The Democratic Alliance has also called for Mapisa-Nqakula’s head, with Chief Whip
Siviwe Gwarube asserting, “Parliament is the cornerstone of our democracy…it
cannot afford to be presided over by an individual embroiled in a corruption scandal.”
“The Speaker holds a position of immense responsibility…any perception of
corruption undermines the credibility and effectiveness of Parliament,” Gwarube
added.
This scandal erupts just weeks after Mapisa-Nqakula approved a controversial 70%
salary hike for the Secretary to Parliament, raising further questions about her ethical
judgement.
As the Speaker faces mounting pressure, opposition parties remain adamant that her
alleged conduct is unbecoming of such a crucial democratic office. With
investigations looming, Mapisa-Nqakula’s future hangs in the balance amidst calls for
accountability from across the political spectrum.
