COPE calls for Parliament to be dissolved

COPE spokesperson Dennis Bloem says they cannot be complicit in disrespecting the Constitution by participating in the SONA debate. 

"This is consistent with our long held position that having being found by the court to have failed to uphold and defend the constitution, Jacob Zuma has discharged himself from the Oath of Office of State President. He cannot be recognized as State President and must resign forthwith," says Bloem.

Bloem says Parliament itself has been found to have failed to respect the Constitution and hold the President and Executive to account.

"It is in contempt of the Constitutional Court order. It must be dissolved forthwith and fresh elections called to save our democracy," says Bloem.

The EFF is also not in Parliament for the debate this afternoon.