PRETORIA, Gauteng — The African National Congress (ANC) has officially backed National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza following her decision not to oppose President Cyril Ramaphosa’s urgent court bid to halt the Phala Phala impeachment proceedings. During a recent media briefing, ANC acting spokesperson Nonceba Mhlauli outlined the key outcomes of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) meeting, defending the Speaker’s neutrality and clarifying the party’s procedural stance on the ongoing legal battle.
Procedural Withdrawal in the Phala Phala Matter
Addressing the ANC’s initial notice to intervene in the Phala Phala court case and its subsequent withdrawal, Mhlauli explained that the initial filing was purely procedural. The party needed to secure its place before the June 18 deadline, as the NWC was scheduled to meet on the following Monday.
Following the NWC’s discussion, the committee reached a different conclusion, prompting the withdrawal. However, Mhlauli noted that the avenue to intervene as a friend of the court remains open should the party decide to proceed later. The ANC maintains that its stance is focused on process rather than merit, supporting the Constitutional Court’s directive regarding the amendment of parliamentary rules and the establishment of the impeachment committee. Furthermore, the party fully supports Ramaphosa’s decision to take the matter on review and pause proceedings in the interim, viewing it as a fair and legal procedure.
Defending Speaker Thoko Didiza Against Bias Claims
National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza has faced significant criticism over her decision to abide by the court process, with some labeling her as conflicted. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have even indicated their intention to have the deputy speaker preside over the Phala Phala matter.
Mhlauli strongly dismissed these allegations as unfounded. She emphasized that Didiza has consistently abided by court judgments and correctly recuses herself from ANC National Executive Committee (NEC) and NWC meetings whenever the matter is discussed—a practice also followed by the President.
Debunking rumors that Didiza was taking instructions from a meeting of parliamentary officials, Mhlauli clarified that the Speaker has never been present during such discussions or legal advice sessions. As the head of the legislature, Didiza’s decision not to oppose the court review is described as a highly neutral stance, allowing the legal process to unfold without interference. Mhlauli warned against political campaigns targeting the Speaker, calling attempts to make her a “sacrificial lamb” unfortunate, and urged opposing parties to present their arguments in court.
Continental Approach to Migration Ahead of June 30 Demonstrations
Shifting focus to the upcoming June 30 demonstrations regarding illegal migration, Mhlauli highlighted that migration is a global and continental phenomenon. She stressed that it should not be viewed solely as a South African problem, noting that the country is one of two primary receiving nations on the continent.
The ANC is actively engaging with counterparts in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU) to develop a continental approach. This strategy aims to address the root causes of migration, including the political and economic conditions driving people from their home countries, rather than treating it as an isolated national issue.
Regarding the planned protests, the ANC reiterated that only the state has the authority to verify legal residency. While the constitutional right to peaceful demonstration is protected, Mhlauli made it clear that unlawful activities such as violence, beating others, and looting will not be tolerated. She assured the public that the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPs) cluster has implemented robust measures to maintain law and order during and after the demonstrations.
National Pride in Bafana Bafana’s World Cup Aspirations
Concluding on a lighter note, Mhlauli celebrated the resilience of the South African national soccer team, Bafana Bafana. Despite being written off by critics after their opening match, the team has shown remarkable perseverance on the world stage. Mhlauli expressed immense confidence in the squad’s journey, echoing the President’s promise of a public holiday if they bring the World Cup home, and humorously challenged the team to face Argentina to prove their winning formula.
