ANC Statement on DA NCOP Walkout

The African National Congress is gravely concerned about the Democratic Alliance's reported walk out of the National Council of Provinces debate on the Employment Equity Amendment Bill yesterday. Parliament is the primary platform through which our country's democracy is entrenched and enhanced. It is inconceivable therefore that it is respected only when its processes and outcomes favour a particular view. Behaviour such as this that is continuously demonstrated by the DA is not only reckless and irresponsible; it undermines Parliament, the fundamental tenants of our Constitutional Democracy and communicates a vote of no confidence by the party in democratic processes, notwithstanding the debate. This is a matter that should not be left unattended or taken lightly.

The DA's unfortunate decision to walk out of the NCOP debate yesterday further sought to derail an important milestone in the acceleration of redress and transformation in our country. Their position on the Employment Equity Amendment Bill once again reaffirms our view that the party exists solely to protect minority privilege at the expense of transformation of the economy to benefit the majority. The African National Congress is pleased that the Employment Equity Amendment Bill has been passed by the NCOP and we hope that the President shall speedily enact it into law; thus bringing the attainment of the vision of equitable economic redistribution and a better life for all that much closer for the people of South Africa. 

Statement issued by Jackson Mthembu, ANC national spokesperson, November 23 2013

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