Newly appointed National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza has affirmed her commitment to working with all parties in Parliament.
“It does not mean that those who have voted differently are not in support of the work done,” she said. Didiza emphasised that the legislature’s work must be conducted in the interest of all South Africans.
“I also commit that I will work with all parties to ensure that the work of this Parliament reflects the will of the people of South Africa,” she stated.
Didiza expressed her gratitude to the African National Congress for nominating her to represent them.
“As a country and as a democratic state, we have an opportunity to express our views,” she added, highlighting the importance of participation in the democratic process.
Following her election, Didiza initiated the process to elect a Deputy Speaker. The EFF’s Floyd Shivambu nominated ATM’s Vuyo Zungula, while the DA nominated Annelie Lotriet for the position. A secret ballot was being prepared for the vote. During the break, EFF MPs broke out in song and dance.
The ANC’s Thoko Didiza has been voted and elected as Speaker of Parliament.
“I declare the Honourable Thoko Didiza duly elected as Speaker of the National Assembly,” announced Chief Justice Raymond Zondo. “I have the honour of congratulating you on your election as Speaker.”
The total number of ballot papers issued was 341, and the total number of ballots counted was also 341. There were nine spoiled and invalid papers—eight spoiled and one invalid where a member asked for another paper.
The final vote count was as follows: Didiza received 284 votes, and Mente received 49 votes.
Didiza was sworn in while MPs on the floor were cheering and singing. She was nominated by fellow party members. The EFF nominated Veronica Mente as Speaker, seconded by the UDM’s Bantu Holomisa.
The counting process was delayed after the Economic Freedom Fighters objected to the votes being counted off-site.
EFF MP Mbuyiseni Ndlozi requested that the votes be counted in front of cameras. Chief Justice Zondo addressed the issue by allowing each party to send a representative for the counting. Zondo mentioned that this suggestion from an ANC MP aligned with the new Parliament rules.
-IOL
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