African National Congress (ANC) MP Mosebenzi Zwane has been found guilty of contempt of Parliament. Some members of the Powers and Privilege Committee referred to his behaviour as irresponsible and are demanding accountability.
Zwane faced these charges, after he failed to tender an apology in the National Assembly, on two occasions. The apology relates to his failure to declare monetary favours from the Guptas to Parliament.
MPs say Zwane wilfully and intentionally refused or neglected to present himself to the National Assembly, to tender this apology.
Zwane’s first opportunity for an apology was on the 1st of May 2023. And then, again on the 6th of September last year. He was expected to apologise in person in the National Assembly, for contravening the Code of Ethics.
The charges related to State Capture, and the Gupta family. But Zwane had excuses for both no-shows.
“I do not plead guilty to the charge, the flight was delayed and I indicated by way of the minister,” says Zwane.
Zwane says he was in the National Assembly on the second occasion but was called away urgently when he got news about his sister needing an urgent blood transfusion. He presented photographic evidence of this but this was called into question.
“This causes confusion and must be rejected, it is not credible,” says initiator Zuko Mapoma.
Mapona said that as a senior member of Parliament, Zwane’s transgression cannot be overlooked. He said that as a senior member of a law making body, Zwane’s behaviour was unbearable.
MPs across the board agreed that Zwane did not make enough effort to explain his absence.
“Instead of going to report to a whip, you went straight to the lawyers, I wouldn’t do that,” says ANC Deputy Chief Whip Doris Dlakude.
The sanction meted out, is a 50 % salary cut for one month and a public apology in the National Assembly before the 29th of March this year. Zwane asked for the salary cut to be reconsidered.
“The salary cut is a bit harsh; I have school fees to pay and I ask that that matter be relooked,”
But MPs said the sanctions are reasonable and supported it.
