Nkandla: President Zuma's silence is disgraceful

The DA condemns in the strongest terms possible the ANC's reported attempts to identify only some ministers and officials as scape-goats for the Nkandla scandal, while letting President Zuma off the hook. This is shameful, a slap in the face for accountability, and an insult to our Constitution. 

It is also highly revealing of the President's own integrity. How can he look his colleagues in cabinet straight in the eyes  when he is so clearly implicated in this scandal, but remains silent? Indeed, nearly two weeks after the release of the report, there has been no apology, no explanation, and no accountability.

If he really wanted to earn the respect of South Africans, he should have shown true leadership by taking responsibility for this scandal, offering to reimburse the South African tax payer every single cent spent on non-security items at his home and then accordingly tender his resignation, effective immediately. 

His failure to do so is both a reflection on his character and on the party he leads.

Fortunately, our constitution provides for mechanisms to deal with Presidents who act in the wrong, but refuse to do the honourable thing.  

This is why the DA has tabled a motion of impeachment against President Zuma in the National Assembly - in terms of section 89 of the Constitution. 

Despite the ANC's desperate attempts to cover up this scandal- the DA will ensure that every single person - from deputy minister to President - is held to account

This is also why I have requested an urgent meeting with the Speaker of the National Assembly, Max Sisulu, to have an opportunity to discuss at length my motion to remove President Zuma from office and the formation of an ad hoc committee that will deal with this impeachment inquiry.

I am however concerned that despite being empowered by the Constitution and the rules of the National Assembly to act with much speed on this matter- the Speaker has not acted promptly. I submitted the motion 10 days ago. A decision must now be forthcoming. 

The DA will not be deterred. We will continue in our fight to ensure that all those responsible - including President Zuma - are held to account.

Statement issued by Lindiwe Mazibuko MP, Parliamentary Leader of the Democratic Alliance, March 30 2014

Click here to sign up to receive our free daily headline email newsletter