Mbete files affidavit in secret ballot matter
Parliament has confirmed it has filed answering affidavits in the bid by the United Democratic Front (UDM) to force the National Assembly to allow a secret ballot in the motion of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma.
The UDM approached the Constitutional Court after Speaker Baleka Mbete said the rules made no provision for a secret ballot during such a motion.
“Yes, we can confirm that the Speaker of the National Assembly this afternoon submitted her replying affidavits to the ConCourt application brought by the UDM regarding the secret ballot. There is a further deadline next week which the speaker will comply with,” said Parliament spokesperson Moloto Mothapo.
The debate and vote on the motion of no confidence was brought by Democratic Alliance leader Mmusi Maimane. It has been postponed pending the conclusion of the court application.