The Presiding Officers and Leaders of Parties met today to discuss the impact and implications of the recent Constitutional Court Judgment. The engagement took place in a good spirit and was constructive.
The issues raised in the meeting included the continued erosion of the credibility of Parliament – as well as challenges around decorum that have been experienced since the start of the 5th Parliament.
We have indicated the need to unpack the judgement with a view to highlighting issues that need the consideration of Parliament. This will include how Parliament should process amongst others reports of Chapter 9 Institutions.
There may be issues that necessitate rules review. To the extent that this is necessary, the current review process will be broadened to deal with these matters.
Issues that the Parties have raised in writing with the Speaker are receiving consideration. These include requests for a disciplinary process against the President; ad hoc committee to investigate whether the President misled the House.
There was recognition that this meeting does not replace any of the governing structures of Parliament. The meeting agreed to continuous engagements on issues pertaining to Parliament.
