'Allow due process to unfold': ANC chief whip on corruption allegations against Mapisa-Nqakula

CAPE TOWN - ANC chief whip Pemmy Majodina says due process must be allowed to unfold in the wake of corruption investigations involving National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula.

This follows Tuesday's raid on Mapisa-Nqakula’s Johannesburg home amid claims she benefitted over R2 million in kickbacks from defence force tenders while she was the minister.

As pressure mounts from opposition parties for Mapisa-Nqakula to step down as the head of the legislature, Majodina said Parliament regards itself as separate from any law enforcement processes.

"At the moment, we do not know what are their findings and it would be premature for us to comment negatively or positively as a caucus. Let’s allow the due process to unfold. Everyone must be given the benefit of the doubt until there’s a complete report on the findings and recommendation thereof."

While Majodina said the parliamentary caucus would pronounce itself once these findings are known, Freedom Front Plus leader Pieter Groenewald said the speaker can’t be allowed to continue in her role.

"The speaker is supposed to be the symbol of integrity, respect, accountability and transparency of Parliament. She should now step aside until this investigation is completed because her integrity is now under investigation and that reflects on Parliament."