'My daughter was sick' - Naledi Chirwa apologises for missing parliamentary sitting

The National Assembly voted to impeach Hlophe last month with an overwhelming majority of 305 MP from the ANC and DA voting in favour of the motion. 

Twenty-seven MPs, mainly from the EFF, voted against the motion.

But 11 MPs were absent from the sitting.

Party leader Julius Malema has since ordered EFF secretary-general Marshall Dlamini to ask those who missed the sitting to provide reasons for failing to attend the session.

Chirwa has since posted a public apology on social media platform X, saying her 4-month-old daughter's ill health was the reason for her absence.

"I am regretful for failing to attend Parliament.  My 4-month-old daughter was sick, and so I went home.

“My daughter is currently with my mother until post elections; this to allow me the opportunity to be completely engaged in organisational work during this period and to form part of the collective that will usher an EFF government post 29 May 2024," said Chirwa.

Chirwa said she reported her absence to the organisation and not the designated whip of the caucus in Parliament.

Chirwa admitted this was a mistake.

"I attended the PC for Higher Education in Parliament on the virtual platform on the same day and contributed to the business of the day.

“Unfortunately for the Budget Speech, there was no hybrid facility that could allow me to be present online (only physical attendance for the budget speech) thus my inability to be present.

“This has no bearing on my commitment and dedication to my beloved organisation and South Africans," said Chirwa.

Chirwa reiterated her commitment to the movement and her responsibility as an MP.

"This is the primary reason why I went on maternity leave a day before I gave birth and returned two months prior to the lapse of my maternity leave.”

She has also committed to buying two gazebos before the 28th of March as part of the reprimand set by the organisation.

The apology has since sparked mixed reactions, with some saying Chirwa should not have had to apologise for being absent from work due to her child's health.