WC High Court dismisses with costs EFF's application to interdict joint rules ahead of SONA
The rules now make it a violation to disrupt the president’s speech through points of order.
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party members are removed by presidential task force and Parliament officials as South African President Cyril Ramaphosa attempts to deliver his 2023 State of the Nation (SONA) at the Cape Town City Hall in Cape Town on February 9, 2023. Picture: ESA ALEXANDER / AFP
CAPE TOWN - The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have been dealt another legal blow as the Western Cape High Court dismisses its urgent application to suspend new parliamentary rules.
The more stringent new joint rules are to come into effect at State of the Nation address on Thursday
The rules now make it a violation to disrupt the president’s speech through points of order.
The EFF approached the court on an urgent basis before the court took its decision today.
The joint rules - which will come into effect on Thursday - make it more difficult for members of Parliament to disrupt the president during his address.
They also expressly outlaw “grossly disorderly conduct".
The EFF had argued that the rules affect their right to free speech and right to protest that are enshrined in the Constitution.
But Judge Deidre Kusevitsky said she’s of the view that the EFF failed to satisfy the requirements for the relief sought.
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She added that the courts “have reiterated the separation of powers and the duty and obligation for arms of state” to be mindful and “usurp” its powers.
Kusevitsky said the EFF has also not made out a case orally for a suspension of the rules.
The application was dismissed with costs.