Suspension, fine notices sent to Economic Freedom Fighters' members
Letters of suspension and notices of fines were sent today to members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) found guilty of contempt of Parliament.
This follows the adoption by the National Assembly (NA) yesterday of the report of the Powers and Privileges Committee on the hearing into allegations of conduct constituting contempt of Parliament by Members of the NA. The hearing, led by independent initiator Mr Randall van Voore, was held following the disruption of NA proceedings on 21 August, during President Jacob Zuma’s oral reply session in the House.
Six members of the EFF - Mr F Shivambu, Mr P Ramakatsa, Mr J Malema, Ms K Litchfield-Tshabalala, Mr G Gardee and Mr M Ndlozi - were suspended for 30 days with no pay. Another six EFF Members were suspended for 14 days without pay - Ms E Louw, Ms R Mashabela, Ms O Maxon, Ms M Moonsamy, Mr A Mngxitama and Mr N Matiase.
Eight EFF Members were each fined an amount equivalent to 14 days’ salary and allowances - Mr B Joseph, Mr S Mbatha, Mr Z Morapela, Ms S Khawula, Ms A Matshobeni, Ms V Nqweniso, Ms P Ntobongwana and Ms P Sonti. The suspensions take effect from today. The 30 days’ suspensions expire on 28 December and the 14 days’ suspensions expire on 12 December.
Suspended members are prohibited from entering Parliament or from participating in any activity of Parliament or its committees without written permission of the Speaker. They are also not entitled to any allowances under the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers Act for the duration of their suspensions.
