Parliament welcomed the High Court’s dismissal of the Economic Freedom Fighters’ (EFF’s) legal challenge, saying the latest ruling upheld the decisions taken by the Presiding Officers and affirmed the processes followed by Parliament in maintaining order and decorum within the legislative body.

The case relates to incidents during the February 2023 State of the Nation Address, where members of the EFF, including Julius Malema, Floyd Shivambu, Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, Marshall Dlamini, Vuyani Pambo, and Sinawo Tambo raised points of order and engaged in disruptive behaviour.

Parliament noted that despite the Speaker ordering them to cease their conduct and leave the Chamber, the members persisted, leading to their removal by the Serjeant at Arms and the Parliamentary Protection Services.

They were then charged with contempt of Parliament for their actions which were deemed “seriously detrimental to the dignity and orderly procedure of the House”. The EFF challenged this.

Parliament explained that in its judgment, the court “meticulously” examined the events and the corresponding actions taken by Parliament, and found that the disciplinary measures imposed were consistent with the parliamentary rules and were necessary to preserve the integrity and functionality of Parliament.

In dismissing the EFF members’ case, the court affirmed the correctness of the procedures and decisions implemented by the Presiding Officers, it added.

Parliament said it remained committed to upholding principles and ensuring that the parliamentary processes were not disrupted by “unparliamentary behaviour”.

“The judgment serves as a reminder of the necessity for all Members of Parliament to conduct themselves in a manner befitting their roles and to contribute positively to the democratic process,” Parliament added.