Busisiwe Mkhwebane: Casac and Corruption Watch Present Their Cases Against Public Protector in Court

Busisiwe Mkhwebane: Casac and Corruption Watch Present Their Cases Against Public Protector in Court

- The Lawyers Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution (Casac) and Corruption Watch have presented their cases opposing Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane's application to have Parliament’s impeachment rules declared unconstitutional

- Michelle le Roux of Corruption Watch said in court that South Africa is on the same level as international standards when it comes to removing a Chapter 9 head

- Le Roux also said that openness and transparency, as well as accountability, are at the core of the Constitution, hence Parliament's impeachment rules should stay intact

PAY ATTENTION: Click “See First” under the “Following” tab to see Briefly.co.za News on your News Feed!

The Lawyers Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution (Casac) and Corruption Watch have offered their support of Parliament's decision to probe Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane's actions.

“Friends of the court" make their case

Taking to court, Michelle le Roux of Corruption Watch said that Parliament's impeachment rules should remain as they are of the same standard as international constitutions. This comes after Mkhwebane made an application to have Parliament's impeachment rules declared unconstitutional as part of her efforts to remain in her position.

Read also

Boss moves: Young man saves NSFAS money to start own business, Mzansi showers the entrepreneur with praise

Busisiwe Mkwhebane: Casac and Corruption Watch Present Their Cases Against Public Protector in Court
The friends of the court have presented their cases against Busisiwe Mkwhebane. Images: Phill Magakoe/ The Times
Source: Getty Images

PAY ATTENTION: Never miss breaking news – join Briefly News' Telegram channel

Values of the Constitution

When making her case, Le Roux made it clear that the Constitution needed to be as transparent, responsive and accountable as possible, also adding that the Public Protector is meant to strengthen constitutional democracy, reports EWN.

According to le Roux, if Mkhwebane succeeds in changing Parliament's impeachment rules, it may result in the public losing confidence in the office and also officials disregarding the office and its rules, News24 reports.

The long process to remove Mkhwebane explained

Busisiwe Mkhwebane is about to face down an unprecedented move for someone in her position. Briefly News reported that National Assembly Speaker Thandi Modise had approved the start of the Public Protector's removal proceedings after a motion was put forward by the Democratic Alliance.

Modise had to ensure the DA's motion had been limited to a clear and substantial charge, showing Mkhwebane had committed misconduct before she could approve it. With this part of the process already undertaken, Modise will now appoint an independent panel to determine if the DA's case is viable.

Read also

Naledi Pandor: SA condemns violence but won't sever diplomatic relations with Israel

Once this committee has managed to reach a quorum, the matter will be referred back to the National Assembly to be voted on if Mkhwebane's removal is called for. President Cyril Ramaphosa will then be tasked with removing the Public Protector if the majority rules in favour of her ousting.

Enjoyed reading our story? Download BRIEFLY's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major South African news!

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Marilynn Manuel avatar

Marilynn Manuel I am an experienced journalist with a keen interest in helping people tell their stories and writing content that inspires readers. When I’m not in front of my laptop producing viral articles for my publication, I find myself submerged in a fitness routine or trying new wellness smoothies. When I need some down time, I find that devouring a good book is equally as satisfying as reaching my health goals. Above all, I am a mom to a cute baby boy.