DA Russia Ukraine

The Ukrainian Association in South Africa organised a protest against the ongoing invasion by Russia, 2 March. Photo: Storm Simpson / The South African.

Parliament approves urgent debate on Russian invasion after DA request

‘Quite apart from the ethics of our position, we as a nation simply cannot afford to side with Russia against the West,’ said Steenhuisen.

DA Russia Ukraine

The Ukrainian Association in South Africa organised a protest against the ongoing invasion by Russia, 2 March. Photo: Storm Simpson / The South African.

The Speaker of the National Assembly accepted the DA’s request for an urgent debate on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, on Wednesday, 9 March. The date of parliamentary debate is yet to be announced.

READ: LIVE UPDATES: Russia’s war in Ukraine: Latest developments

DA REQUEST FOR DEBATE ACCEPTED

DA leader John Steenhuisen wrote to Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula on 3 March to request the debate.

“The subject of your request does warrant an urgent debate in the National Assembly… I will accordingly schedule an urgent debate on the topic after consulting the programming authorities,” wrote the Speaker.

Steenhuisen said he was proud that DA-led governments across the country have chosen to be “on the right side of history.” On Wednesday, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde condemned the Russian invasion and said consuls and ambassadors from the country would not be invited to any events by the provincial government.

“We do not believe that the ANC government’s decision to remain “neutral” – which really means they have chosen to side with Russia – is a true reflection of South Africans’ position on this matter.

“It certainly is not in the national interest. On the contrary, it will cause our nation profound harm,” said Steenhuisen.

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The DA said South Africa’s position on the matter would drive up food and fuel prices and would drive away the nation’s “true friends” at a time when it is vulnerable and in need of support.

“Quite apart from the ethics of our position, we as a nation simply cannot afford to side with Russia against the West.

“We risk losing investment, loans, trade deals, foreign aid and myriad other forms of support,” said Steenhuisen.