Dear Editor
The Democratic Alliance is deeply concerned that ANC MP Malusi Gigaba, who has “stepped aside” from all ANC leadership roles due to serious criminal charges, is nevertheless intending to continue leading and participating in parliamentary oversight as Co-Chairperson of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence (JSCD).
The position of co-chairperson of the JSCD requires a Member with unquestionable integrity. Mr Gigaba’s continued presence in this position undermines Parliament’s credibility and the integrity of South Africa’s defence oversight system.
Last week, the ANC announced that Mr Gigaba had voluntarily stepped aside from party duties after being formally charged with corruption and fraud.
Parliament cannot be held to a lower ethical standard than the ANC. If the charges against Mr Gigaba are serious enough for him to step aside from his party responsibilities, then it is inconceivable that he should continue to occupy one of the most sensitive oversight roles in Parliament, especially in a portfolio where governance failures, procurement irregularities and integrity lapses have had devastating consequences.
Oversight over the defence force, the defence industry and national security demands the highest levels of trust and impartiality.
A committee chair who is facing criminal charges connected to corruption cannot credibly hold the executive to account, cannot exercise impartial oversight over state entities, and cannot represent Parliament with the authority required in defence matters.
The DA therefore calls for Mr Gigaba to immediately step aside from all parliamentary leadership duties, including the JSCD, until the legal process has been concluded.
South Africans deserve a defence oversight system that is credible, independent and unimpeachable. This requires consistent ethical standards, not selective accountability based on party convenience.
Regards
Chris Hattingh MP
DA Spokesperson on Defence & Military Veterans