UDM files responding affidavit in secret ballot matter
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) has filed its responding affidavit in the legal battle over a secret ballot during the upcoming motion of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma.
President Zuma and Speaker Baleka Mbete filed their papers last week.
The UDM's attorney Eric Mabuza says the party argument revolves around the fact that votes are also cast in secret during general elections.
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"When we vote in the general elections, the Constitution prescribes for a secret ballot. You can never have anyone come to you and see who you have voted for," says Mabuza.
UDM leader Bantu Holomisa says he also believes that a secret ballot would protect the rights of ANC MPs who have been threatened by party leaders.
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"And also to make sure when they took an oath at the beginning when they arrived in Parliament, such a decision is clearly protected from howlers who have not taken an oath. So we hope these arguments will win the day."