The party’s position follows the submission of a no-confidence motion by Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema after Didiza decided not to oppose a court application relating to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s interdict.

The EFF has criticised Didiza’s decision to abide by the court ruling rather than file an opposing application on behalf of Parliament. However, the IFP maintains that the circumstances do not justify removing the Speaker from office.

IFP Chief Whip Nhlanhla Hadebe said accountability and transparency are fundamental principles of SA’s constitutional democracy, but argued that the facts presented do not support a motion of no confidence. “While accountability, transparency and robust debate are fundamental pillars of our constitutional democracy, we do not believe the circumstances presented warrant the removal of the Speaker from office,” said Hadebe.

Hadebe said Parliament’s oversight responsibilities must always be exercised within the framework of the Constitution, the rules of the National Assembly and established democratic processes.

According to the IFP, concerns relating to the conduct of constitutional office bearers should be addressed through appropriate parliamentary mechanisms rather than through measures that are not supported by evidence. “The IFP believes that Parliament’s oversight role must always be exercised within the framework of the Constitution, the rules of the National Assembly and established democratic processes,” said Hadebe.

The party further argued that there is no existing factual evidence to justify a loss of confidence in Didiza’s leadership as Speaker.

–SABC/ChannelAfrica–