The South African Communist Party (SACP) is happy with parliament’s decision to impeach Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane, SACP First Deputy General Secretary Solly Mapaila said on Wednesday.
The House made the decision to proceed with the impeachment hearings following a Constitutional Court ruling allowing it to proceed with its probe into Mkhwebane’s fitness to hold office after she succeeded Thuli Madonsela following the end of her contract some years ago.
“We have said in the past that her conduct, at some point, left much to be desired in a sense that she was pursuing a political agenda, and nit-picking on individuals that she thought were vulnerable for factional battles largely in the African National Congress,” Mapaila said.
He added: “I think that is the outcome when people (in office) disregard the rule of law. So we are happy that Parliament has finally reached this conclusion. They must put this matter to an end.”
Meanwhile, Mkhwebane has filed a rescission application to the same court to halt the impeachment process against her.
In a 25-page affidavit, she highlighted what she said were key errors that the Constitutional Court made when it ruled against her.
She further raised a concern that, should the “judgment not be corrected,” it might lead to the president suspending her from office.
National Assembly Speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, has informed President Cyril Ramaphosa about parliament’s intention to proceed with impeachment hearings against the Ombudsman.
In terms of the constitution, the president could suspend her pending the outcome of the inquiry.
NM/jn/APA