Date set for UDM, EFF ConCourt bid
The Constitutional Court will hear the application by opposition parties on the issue of a secret ballot on 15 May.
The UDM and EFF want the court to compel the Speaker of the National Assembly, Baleka Mbete, to grant requests for a secret ballot during a motion of no confidence against President Jacob Zuma.
UDM leader Bantu Holomisa says: "The Chief Justice has issued a direction saying the application is set for hearing on 15 May."
President Zuma has opposed the application.
The debate and vote had been postponed to allow the court time to finalise the application.
There have been four previous such motions tabled, none of which have been successful.
The UDM approached the ConCourt on the issue of a secret ballot earlier this month.
Holomisa says: "There is uncertainty, even in the Cabinet, as to whether this man is going or not going. We are happy that at least this matter will be listened to by the highest court."
The UDM decided to turn to the courts after Mbete replied to a written submission, saying she does not have the authority to make a decision.
Holomisa is adamant the rules of Parliament do not prohibit the use of a secret ballot during a motion of no confidence.
The motion comes amid mounting pressure for the president to step down.
Date set for UDM, EFF ConCourt bid by Laila Majiet on Scribd