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The DA has written to KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Legislature Speaker, Nontembeko Boyce, to lodge a formal complaint against provincial Health portfolio committee chairperson, Nomakiki Majola.

This after those who attempted to present their views at provincial hearings on the proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill were subjected to her screeching tirade about how they should present their submission, and instructed them to state if they are “in or out”.

To add to this, the chairperson’s ranting was met with much mirth and rapturous applause by the majority in the audience, bedecked in ANC colours. The chairperson’s shocking conduct was not applied to speakers in ANC regalia or those who spoke in support of the bill.

The DA has called on the Speaker to fully examine this matter and refer it for action to the Ethics Committee, in keeping with the rules of the legislature. Majola has not only violated her oath of office in the execution of her duties, she has also deprived KZN's citizens of their right to representation during public hearings.

The purpose of public participation is to ensure a free and fair hearing of the views and opinions of citizens. The chairperson’s actions must be seen for what they are - robbing citizens’ freedom and the right to be heard. This is how KZN’s fascist Taliban faction ANC operates.

The proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) is not a magic bullet to fix a broken healthcare system bordering on collapse. The DA has already provided 50 reasons why NHI will not work in its current form. Many citizens, academics at the highest level and healthcare workers in both the public and private sector are in agreement with us.

The DA urges the Speaker to give this matter the serious attention it deserves.

KZN’s people cannot endure the violation of their rights any more. The 2024 elections will provide them with the opportunity to rescue our province from this Taliban-run ANC, which will no doubt partner with the EFF to further destroy KZN. The ballot box cannot come soon enough.

Issued by Dr Imran Keeka, MPL - Chief Whip to the DA in the KZN Legislature