As a leader of the National Assembly which is one of the most potent arm of the State, Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula is fighting for her political career and legacy following allegations of corruption levelled against her.
Mapisa-Nqakula has been accused of soliciting bribes of about R2.3 million from contractors while she was the Minister Defence under President Cyril Ramaphosa’s administration. Her home was recently raided by the National Prosecution Authority as part of its mandate to investigate corruption.
The Speaker of the National Assembly who has denied the allegations aimed at her dismissed reports that she had been arrested following reports doing the rounds in the media. She also announced that she has taken a decision to take a special leave to deal with dark clouds hanging over her head as she was about to retire actively from politics after the much anticipated general elections.
“I wish to place it on record, that while the Investigative Directorate of the National Prosecution Authority conducted a search and seizure at my residence, there has been no formal notification of an arrest warrant or communication regarding an imminent arrest for me, neither to me nor my legal team.My lawyers have, however, proactively informed the National Prosecution Authority of my readiness to comply and cooperate should the need arise,” Mapisa-Nqakula said.
“I hold the utmost respect for our legislative system and the laws of our nation, some of which I have been privileged to pass. I assure the nation of my willingness to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies on any matter that may arise. This decision has been communicated to the Secretary of Parliament and to the President of the Republic in his capacity as Head of State. This decision by myself is meant to protect the integrity of Parliament and ensure its sacred duty and its name continue unblemished.”
Meanwhile, Mapisa Nqakula’s predecessor, former Speaker of the National Assembly Baleka Mbete has defended her successor.
“They violated her privacy, and she allowed them to do so in calmness and dignity, and I just think they should be ashamed of themselves. You must say what it is that you want a person to account for .Yes, sure, there must be accountability, but come and say what it is that you are looking for on the basis of what,” she said during the Battle of the Cuito Cuanavle commemoration in Pretoria.
Deputy Speaker in the National Assembly, Lechesa Tsenoli has taken over Mapisa-Nqakula . Confirming the reports Parliament spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo said Tsenoli would perform all Speaker responsibilities and assured the public that the work of the National Assembly remained unaffected.
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