KwaZulu-Natal legislature suspends 36 members following chaotic sitting

In a decisive move aimed at upholding parliamentary decorum, the Speaker of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, Nontembeko Boyce, has confirmed the suspension of 36 MPLs - 35 from the uMkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP) and one from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). This unprecedented action comes on the heels of “gross disorderly, violent and unlawful conduct” displayed during the December 15 sitting.

The suspended MPs will experience a financial penalty, losing remuneration for five sitting days from January 12 to 17, in accordance with the legislature's standing rules. Boyce described the behaviour displayed during the sitting as a "fundamental and unacceptable attack on parliamentary democracy, the rule of law and the authority of the Presiding Officer.” Such clear condemnation underscores her commitment to protecting the legislature's authority and dignity, stating emphatically that this protection would occur “without any exceptions.”

The chaos erupted during a critical session intended to address a no-confidence motion against KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli, during which members vocally protested against the decision to forego a secret ballot. Despite the upheaval, Premier Ntuli emerged unscathed from the vote. The MKP has since rebuffed the suspensions, labelling the sanctions “legally not sound, procedurally flawed and politically reckless,” and is currently evaluating its legal and parliamentary options.

In an interview with SABC News, Speaker Boyce recounted the disruption's escalation, noting that the turbulence began as the voting procedure was announced. “During the sitting in question, we experienced a disruption that was targeted at ensuring that the sitting does not proceed with its business,” she said. Boyce recounted how opposition members began singing and vacating their seats during the crucial voting period, an intentional disruption that ignored repeated orders to resume their places.

As tensions escalated, Boyce was compelled to temporarily suspend the house under Rule 651 due to the chaotic nature of the proceedings, which included some members obstructing her path while trying to leave the chamber. The Speaker noted that the presence of members blocking her way during her departure further justified the need for suspension.

To ascertain the identities of the disruptive members, Boyce explained that they reviewed camera footage to closely analyse the actions of each individual involved during the disruption. “We went back with the visuals of the legislature and looked back. We would zoom into one member and follow the movements of that particular member at all given times,” she said.

Boyce expressed hope that the suspensions would help restore order within the legislature, adding, “I hope so. In fact, I pray so. I pray that members of the legislature will learn that there are rules and that they have to behave in a manner that is exemplary as the lawmakers, particularly because they lead people and lead on behalf of people.”

Addressing the MKP's concerns regarding the legitimacy of the vote, Boyce stated she was unaware of any pending legal challenges. “I wouldn't know. Maybe the courts will know. I don't know,” she remarked. Furthermore, she acknowledged reports of threats made against certain members concerning their votes, saying these members were not intimidated and remained resolute in their actions.

Boyce reiterated the significance of maintaining parliamentary discipline and upholding the rule of law, stating pointedly, “No one is bigger than the law. Your decisions are not yours alone; there is an arbiter who will look at them.”

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