DA says the Speaker’s dress code ruling is absurd
It is generally accepted practice for members of the legislature to be dressed formally or in traditional attire. The DA firmly believes that Sithole was dressed appropriately and dignified.
MBOMBELA- The Democratic Alliance in the province accused the Speaker of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature Thandi Shongwe to be extremely biased and unable to preside over the proceedings of the legislature in an impartial and professional manner.
This allegedly follows a recent point of order raised by ANC MPL Hon VV Windvoël, objecting to the dress code of DA Chief Whip,Jane Sithole. It is alleged that Shongwe ruled that Sithole’s dress was too revealing to be worn in the house and ruled that the dress was not in line with the decorum of the house.
“In defence of Sithole, I raised a point of order and voiced my extreme objection to her ruling and the sexist and perverse remarks made about VV Windvoël and the ANC Chief Whip, JM Mkhatshwa.
Instead of the Speaker protecting the dignity of Sithole (and all members of the house), she entertained their sexual innuendo’s and attacked Sithole from the presiding officer seat,” said Anthony Benadie, MPL Leader of the DA.
“It is generally accepted practice for members of the legislature to be dressed formally or in traditional attire. The DA firmly believes that Sithole was dressed appropriately and dignified,”.
The DA believes that the Speaker has failed in her duty in terms of Rule 47(1) of the Legislature Rules and Orders, which requires of her to preside over the proceedings of the legislature in a fair and impartial manner and protect the rights, privileges and integrity of the house and its members. The DA will file a formal grievance against the Speaker in terms of Rule 47 (3 & 4) of the Legislature Rules and Orders.
The DA will now insist repeatedly that the conduct of the Speaker be debated in the Legislature to ensure that her inability to preside over the proceedings of the house is exposed,” he said.
