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. As a result, I have on 11 August had a very fruitful meeting with the Speaker, where I have made my views in this regard very clear. The Speaker and I subsequently found consensus on the following matters:

She has the support of the DA in this, and I hope that her own party will equally back her in making Parliament more effective.

In light of the above, removing the Speaker at this point will be, in my view, premature and not the right course of action to get Parliament working.