Cape Town — Former uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party leader Jabulani Khumalo’s attempt to get sworn in as a member of parliament on Tuesday was reportedly rejected by the National Assembly.
Khumalo has been involved in a back-and-forth with current party leader, Jacob Zuma, over his current status in the party. Khumalo was allegedly expelled from the party and said he would defy his expulsion to attend the swearing-in as an MP.
Khumalo sought legal action against his expulsion in the Western Cape High Court to get reinstated, but the application was dismissed, saying the ruling lacked urgency.
This did not stop Khumalo from attempting to be sworn-in. When the 58 MK Party members were sworn-in on Tuesday, NA secretary, Xaso Masibulele dismissed Khumalo’s request, The Citizen reported.
“Your name does not appear on our membership list and as such no arrangements will be made for you to travel to Cape Town for swearing-in as a member of the National Assembly.” Masibulele said.
“Access to the parliamentary precinct will also not be granted. You may raise any issues you have in this regard with the designated party signatory, Mr Sihle Ngubane,” he added.
NEWS: It appears that former MK Party leader Jabulani Khumalo tried to get sworn in today, but his attempt was shot down by the national assembly. @ScrollaAfrica pic.twitter.com/eBRwx9Z25e
— Sihle Mavuso (@ZANewsFlash) June 25, 2024
According to IOL, among the 58 members sworn-in includes Jacob Zuma’s daughter, Duduzile Zuma, impeached judge John Hlophe, and Des van Rooyen.
“We are now the official opposition,” Hlophe said when he was sworn in on Tuesday, becoming the MK Party’s chief whip.
The MK members were sworn-in after the party boycotted the first sitting of Parliament, and Hlophe said they have been elected to work and they will make sure they stay above petty politics.
“We have been elected by the people of this country, we are here to work, we consider that as our role. We are going to engage in a robust debate but in a respectful manner. But make no mistake, we are not going to allow ourselves to be bullied by anyone. We are adults and we know why we are here,’’ he said.
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
