The Democratic Alliance (DA) will approach Parliament’s Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests to ask for an investigation into National Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, following allegations that she accepted bribes during her tenure as the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans.

News reports over the weekend claimed Mapisa-Nqakula took bribes totalling R2.3-million from a South African National Defence Force contractor, as well as standing accused of approving a 70% salary hike for the Secretary to Parliament Xolile George, raising his annual package from R2.6-million to R4.4-million.

“It is for this reason that the Democratic Alliance will lodge a complaint with the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests in order to launch a thorough and expeditious investigation into these allegations. The integrity of our parliamentary institutions must be safeguarded, and those found guilty of corrupt activities must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. These allegations represent a serious breach of public trust and demand swift and decisive action,” the DA said.

It went on to state that as the cornerstone of the country’s democracy, Parliament cannot be presided over by a person involved in a corruption scandal.

It added that corruption perceptions undermine Parliament’s credibility and effectiveness.

“Therefore, it is imperative that Speaker Mapisa-Nqakula is thoroughly investigated immediately to ensure that the integrity of Parliament is preserved and that those responsible for any wrongdoing are held accountable,” the DA said.