DA explains why it will vote against EFF motion of no confidence in Thoko Didiza

The Democratic Alliance (DA) will today vote against the motion of no confidence in the Speaker, Thoko Didiza, by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).

I have, in recent months, been very critical of the Speaker in her approach to the interdict application brought by the President in the impeachment process. I have also been critical of the Speaker regarding Parliament’s handling of the continuing issue around the Secretary to Parliament, which does not form part of the motion.

I have stated publicly that Parliament deserves a strong Speaker who is willing to stand up for the institution. However, the DA does not believe that the removal of the Speaker at this time is the correct mechanism to achieve this. We believe that such a move would be premature.

The DA will vote against the motion of no confidence in the Speaker, Thoko Didiza, by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).

Our focus remains on ensuring that Parliament functions effectively and that the Speaker is held accountable through the appropriate parliamentary processes, rather than through a motion of no confidence that we believe is not in the best interest of the institution at this stage.