LEKOTA'S RECKLESS REMARKS IN PARLIAMENT

The Office of the ANC Chief Whip is gravely disappointed by the irresponsible and reckless statement by Cope leader Mosioua Lekota in parliament today that President Jacob Zuma has "violated his oath of office".

An allegation of violation of office by a head of state is a serious matter that cannot be made lightly or for cheap politicking in the House. In terms of parliament's established practice and procedures, an MP who wishes to bring allegations of improper conduct should do so by way of a substantive motion. 

Rule 66 of the National Assembly states: "no member shall reflect upon the competence or honour of a judge of a superior court, or of the holder of an office (other than a member of government) whose removal from such office is dependent upon a decision of this House, except upon a substantive motion in this House alleging facts which, if true, would in the opinion of the Speaker prima facie warrant such a decision". This is a procedure that was violated by Lekota during the House sitting today. We therefore welcome the Deputy Speaker's commitment to look into his statement and make a ruling. 

We are confident that Lekota will be instructed to withdraw his statement and apologise to the House. Parliament is not a shebeen where spurious allegations are made with impunity.

In preserving the prestige of Parliament, members are at all times required to observe certain codes of conduct, follow certain norms of behaviour and respect the rules, customs and conventions of the institution. 

Lekota's conduct makes a mockery of this parliament. His remarks are baseless, opportunistic, and silly and we reject them with the contempt they deserve.

Statement issued by the Office of the ANC Chief Whip, May 30 2012

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