African National Congress (ANC) member Mosebenge Zwane has been found guilty of contempt of parliament. Some members of the Committee on Powers and Privileges have called his actions irresponsible and are demanding accountability.
Zwane was charged with these charges twice after failing to apologize in parliament. The apology relates to the failure to declare to Congress financial benefits from the Guptas.
The MPs allege that Mr Zwane deliberately and intentionally refused or failed to appear in Parliament to make this apology.
Zwane first had the opportunity to apologize on May 1, 2023, and then again on September 6 last year. He was expected to apologize in person at the Diet for violating ethics rules.
The charges were related to state capture and the Gupta family. However, Zwane had excuses for both absences.
“I have not pleaded guilty to the charges. I have indicated through the minister that the flight was delayed,” Zwane said.
Zwane, who was attending Parliament for the second time, said he was called to the National Assembly after receiving news that his sister needed an emergency blood transfusion. He provided photographic evidence of this, which raised questions.
“This needs to be rejected because it causes confusion. It has no credibility,” said its creator Zuko Mapoma.
Mr Mapona said that as a senior member of parliament, Mr Zwane's violations could not be overlooked. As an executive of the law-making body, he said Mr Zwane's actions were intolerable.
MPs across the board agreed that Mr Zwane had not done enough to explain his absence.
“Instead of reporting to the whip, you went directly to your lawyer. I wouldn't have done that,” said ANC deputy whip Doris Drakude.
The sanctions were achieved by reducing his salary by 50% for one month and issuing a public apology in parliament by March 29 of this year. Mr Zwane called for a reconsideration of the salary cut.
“The salary reduction is a bit harsh. I have tuition fees to pay, so I would like you to reconsider the matter.''
But lawmakers supported the sanctions, saying they were appropriate.