Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula. Images: DIRCO and Flickr.
‘Not an admission of guilt’: Mapisa-Nqakula on her resignation
ANC veteran Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has resigned as Speaker of the National Assembly and a Member of Parliament.
Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula. Images: DIRCO and Flickr.
Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula says her resignation as Speaker of Parliament is not an admission of guilt.
Mapisa-Nqakula tendered her resignation on Wednesday amid an ongoing corruption probe. She allegedly received R4.5 million in kickbacks from a contractor during her tenure as Defence Minister.
NOSIVIWE MAPISA-NQAKULA RESIGNS AS SPEAKER
In a statement released on Wednesday, Nosiviwe, former Defence Minister Charles Nqakula’s wife, said her resignation as Speaker and a Member of Parliament is effective immediately.
Mapisa-Nqakula who has been charged for alleged corruption said her resignation is not an admission of guilt.
The African National Congress (ANC) veteran said she made the conscious decision to dedicate her time and focus to dealing with the probe against her.
“I have decided to uphold the integrity and sanctity of our Parliament.
“The position of Speaker of the National Assembly is critical in the reconstruction and development of our country. Given the seriousness of the allegations against me, I cannot continue in this role,” Mapisa-Nqakula said.
Despite resigning as Speaker of the National Assembly and a Member of Parliament, Mapisa-Nqakula said she remains a loyal member of the ruling party.
OPPOSITION ACCEPTS RESIGNATION
Opposition parties have welcomed Mapisa-Nqakula’s resignation.
The DA which had tabled a motion of no confidence in Mapisa-Nqakula said the law must apply to all with equal measure and consistency.
“This resignation is a victory for accountability and Parliament. By extension, the people of South Africa. Parliament cannot be a refuge for some of the worst among us. Those entrusted to lead and represent South Africa must be up to the task,” DA Chief Whip Siviwe Gwarube said.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) said Mapisa-Nqakula’s resignation is a result of mounting pressure and public scrutiny than acknowledgement of her lack of integrity.
“Her departure from these roles is a significant development, albeit, one that has been delayed by her arrogance,” the red berets said.
Political parties have also called on Mapisa-Nqakula to hand herself over to police.
