South Africa’s uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has filed a formal motion of no-confidence in President Cyril Ramaphosa, accusing him of failing to act decisively against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu who faces allegations of political interference in law enforcement.
The motion, submitted to National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza, follows Ramaphosa’s decision to place Mchunu on special leave pending a judicial inquiry and to appoint Firoz Cachalia, a non-cabinet member, as acting police minister.
The MK Party argues that the move was unconstitutional, citing Ramaphosa’s failure to meet the July 22 deadline set by Chief Justice Mandisa Maya to file opposing papers in the Constitutional Court.
“This is clear defiance of the directives issued by the Chief Justice,” said MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela, adding that Ramaphosa’s silence undermines judicial integrity and public trust amid serious allegations raised by KwaZulu-Natal provisional police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
The MK motion calls for an urgent parliamentary debate and vote within two weeks.
While the MK party remains the official opposition, the motion’s success will, however, depend on support from other parties within the government of national unity.
JN/APA