6 months ago
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“The SCA's decision to strike my appeal marks a setback, not just for me personally but for all those who believed in my role as a protector of public rights and accountability. This experience has been one of disappointment and frustration, revealing a deeply ingrained bias that continues to obstruct genuine justice.”
“These individuals include Pravin Gordhan, [Nazreen] Bawa [evidence leader], [Zuraya] Adhikarie [chief legal adviser of parliament], Hassan Ebrahim [so-called expert witness], Ivan Pillay [witness] and Fatima Ebrahim [legal adviser of parliament]. [SCA] judge [Nathan] Ponnan's attitude further underscores the challenges and biases I have faced in my quest for justice.
“It was evident that Ponnan, leading the judgment, displayed noticeable arrogance and dismissiveness throughout the proceedings.”
Parliament spokesperson Moloto Mothapo said the legislature noted with dismay Mkhwebane’s “unfounded utterances” which sought to impugn the integrity of parliament’s staff members, particularly its chief legal adviser, a parliamentary legal adviser as well as section 194 committee evidence leader.
“There is no merit in the attack levelled against these legal advisers who have served parliament with diligence and integrity over the years. The unwarranted attack on these officials, along with the racial slurs used by Mkhwebane, is particularly regrettable in a democratic society such as ours, where human dignity should be protected and respected,” said Mothapo.
As an MP and a public representative who owes allegiance to the constitution, Mkhwebane has a responsibility to uphold and protect the values enshrined in the constitution, which are the cornerstone of South Africa’s democracy.
Mothapo said Mkhwebane had sought the court’s intervention to express her dissatisfaction with the outcome of the section 194 committee, which the court has since struck from the roll.
Parliament impeached Mkhwebane last September after a section 194 inquiry found her guilty of misconduct and incompetence. She is now an EFF MP.
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