A Landmark Decision at the Hybrid Plenary of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP)

The National Council of Provinces (NCOP) made a landmark decision at their recent plenary, approving the sanctioning of documents from the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests. The decision was made due to allegations of ethical misconduct against parliamentarians Winnie Ngwenya and Tebogo Mamorobela. The NCOP found Ngwenya not guilty of the allegations against her, but Mamorobela was fined for failing to disclose her interests. The NCOP emphasizes transparency, accountability, and public participation in their procedures.

A noteworthy event transpired at the mixed plenary of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP): the sanctioning of documents from the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests. This significant initiative was instigated by grievances against two parliamentarians, Winnie Ngwenya and Tebogo Mamorobela, who were accused of infringing on the Code of Ethical Conduct and Disclosure of Members’ Interests—an essential element of parliamentary civility and openness.

On November 30, 2023, a noteworthy event transpired at the mixed plenary of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP): the sanctioning of documents from the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests. This significant initiative was instigated by grievances against two parliamentarians, Winnie Ngwenya and Tebogo Mamorobela, who were accused of infringing on the Code of Ethical Conduct and Disclosure of Members’ Interests—an essential element of parliamentary civility and openness.

Scrutinizing Allegations Against Ms. Ngwenya

The complaint against Ms. Ngwenya, brought before the Committee by the Chairperson of the NCOP, Amos Masondo, in May 2022, pertains to her alleged participation in the State Capture incident. The accusations suggest her attempt to influence Dennis Bloem, the former Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, to accept money from Bosasa. Bosasa is a company involved in various instances of corruption. Stories emerged of routine financial benefits totaling R20,000 per month from Bosasa in return for her favorable conduct—an assertion Ms. Ngwenya strongly rejected.

Ms. Ngwenya voiced her confusion over Mr. Bloem’s claims, categorically denying any encounters with a Mr. Smith at a Rivonia hotel, or any association with Bosasa’s offices. After a thoughtful analysis, the Committee agreed with her defense, thereby absolving her of any contraventions against the Code of Ethics.

Evaluating The Case Against Ms. Mamorobela

Unlike the case against Ms. Ngwenya, the complaint against Ms. Mamorobela was not just about hints of unethical behavior but clear-cut procedural negligence. The Code of Ethical Conduct and Disclosure of Members’ Interests requires all Parliament Members to disclose their registrable interests annually, a deadline Ms. Mamorobela disregarded in 2022.

The Committee’s position against non-disclosure is unwavering—a no-compromise approach that resulted in Ms. Mamorobela being suggested for a fine equating to twenty days’ salary. Moreover, the member is to endure a formal reprimand in the House—an action meant to emphasize the importance of disclosure, and the repercussions of neglecting such a responsibility.

A Seal of Approval from the House

Both these reports were approved by the House, guaranteeing the continuity of the Parliament’s transparent and ethical practices. For more information on the same, individuals can reach out to Moloto Mothapo, the Parliament’s primary contact for such issues.

The Parliament: Beyond Ethics and Regulations

The Parliament isn’t just about adherence to rules and regulations. It also advocates for the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and submit petitions, as protected under the Bill of Rights. However, these rights must be exercised peacefully, and individuals engaging in these activities must be unarmed.

Public Involvement and Prominent Members

Furthermore, the Parliament appreciates public participation in its procedures. Visitors are invited to plan a tour, participate in a debate, or request additional contact information and directions. One of the distinguished members currently serving is Sibongiseni Ngcobo of the Democratic Alliance, from the provincial list for KwaZulu-Natal. He is an active contributor to the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science, and Innovation.

The Unwavering Commitment of the NCOP

Transparency, accountability, and public participation remain at the core of the Parliament’s principles. These recent incidents emphasize the NCOP’s dedication to preserving these values, ensuring that every member abides by the prescribed ethical code and meets their disclosure responsibilities.

What was the landmark decision made at the recent plenary of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP)?

The NCOP made a landmark decision to approve the sanctioning of documents from the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests, due to allegations of ethical misconduct against parliamentarians Winnie Ngwenya and Tebogo Mamorobela.

What were the allegations against Winnie Ngwenya?

Ms. Ngwenya was accused of participating in the State Capture incident, where she allegedly attempted to influence Dennis Bloem to accept money from Bosasa in return for her favorable conduct. However, after a thorough investigation, the Committee agreed with her defense, thereby absolving her of any contraventions against the Code of Ethics.

What was the case against Tebogo Mamorobela?

Ms. Mamorobela was accused of procedural negligence for failing to disclose her registrable interests annually, as required by the Code of Ethical Conduct and Disclosure of Members’ Interests. As a result, she was suggested for a fine equating to twenty days’ salary and a formal reprimand in the House.

What does the Parliament advocate for?

Apart from adhering to rules and regulations, the Parliament advocates for the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and submit petitions as protected under the Bill of Rights, provided that these activities are carried out peacefully and no weapons are involved.

How can individuals participate in the Parliament’s procedures?

Visitors are invited to plan a tour, participate in a debate, or request additional contact information and directions to foster public involvement in the Parliament’s procedures.

What values remain at the core of the Parliament’s principles?

Transparency, accountability, and public participation remain at the core of the Parliament’s principles, ensuring that every member abides by the prescribed ethical code and meets their disclosure responsibilities.