Malema breaks silence about EFF MP Chirwa's apology for skipping two parliamentary sessions

JOHANNESBURG - Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has broken his silence about the party's member of Parliament (MP) Naledi Chirwa's apology for missing two parliamentary sessions.

She was a no-show during the budget speech and the impeachment vote on Western Cape Judge President John Hlope in Parliament in February.

ALSO READ: EFF MP Naledi Chirwa apologises for missing Hlophe impeachment vote due to sick baby

In an attempt to show her dedication to the EFF, Chirwa revealed that she missed the sessions because her daughter was sick and that she only went on maternity leave a day before she was due to give birth.

She also said that her baby was now staying with her mother to allow her time to focus on the elections.

Malema said Chirwa's apology made inappropriate insinuations about the organisation after concerns were raised about her work environment and conditions.

As Chirwa hit out at some who came to her defence on social media, Malema made his own thoughts on her letter clear.

While he didn’t name Chirwa, nor quote her letter, he described it as having created inappropriate insinuations that left supporters in a protective stance, defending their organisation from what he called rubbish.

Malema didn’t mention the party’s commitments to support parents or the need for a conducive working place, all contained in their election manifesto.

He said this issue was taking the attention of members away from their election work, such as door-to-door campaigns.

Speculation is rife since Malema raised concern about the 11 MPs who skipped Parliament that some, particularly Chirwa, would find themselves without a job.

Malema said if the party were forced to choose between an individual and their organisation, the EFF would always come first.