The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) has formally requested that the upcoming motion of no confidence against President Cyril Ramaphosa be decided by a secret ballot to safeguard Members of Parliament (MPs) from potential reprisal.
On Friday, the party’s parliamentary leader, Dr John Hlophe, wrote to National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza, urging her to exercise discretion in allowing MPs to vote confidentially.
In his letter, Hlophe emphasised the importance of privacy in such a critical vote, citing constitutional principles and judicial precedents.
“A secret ballot will ensure that Members of Parliament can exercise their constitutional duty freely and without fear of intimidation or reprisal,” he stated.
“This is particularly important given the sensitive nature of the motion and the potential political consequences for individual members.”
According to Hlophe, the MK Party’s request is rooted in the 2017 Constitutional Court ruling in United Democratic Movement v Speaker of the National Assembly, which affirmed that the Speaker has the discretion to permit a secret ballot, guided by constitutional principles of accountability, transparency, and individual conscience.
“Justification for a secret ballot includes protection against intimidation, safeguarding the integrity of the voting process, and ensuring that the outcome accurately reflects the will of the Members,” Hlophe wrote.
The motion, submitted last week, accuses President Ramaphosa of failing to address soaring crime rates, economic mismanagement, and lapses in national security.
The party also claims that Ramaphosa’s leadership has eroded public trust and allowed the country to unravel.
Recent allegations by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused political interference within law enforcement agencies, have fuelled the controversy.
In light of these revelations, the MK Party opposes Ramaphosa’s decision to retain Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who has been placed on leave amid ongoing investigations.
The party contends that the president’s move undermines the independence of law enforcement and jeopardises public confidence.
Furthermore, the MK Party has challenged Ramaphosa’s decision in the Constitutional Court, contesting his move to place Mchunu on special leave and the appointment of Professor Firoz Cachalia as acting Police Minister.
In the letter, Hlophe urged the Speaker to consider the constitutional and judicial precedents.
“We kindly request that this submission be considered in line with the Constitution, the Rules of the National Assembly, and relevant judicial precedents. We further request that the Speaker consult with relevant stakeholders and decide on this matter at the earliest opportunity, given the urgency of the motion.”
Politics
