LOBAMBA – Following widely reported tensions and disagreements in Parliament, a private caucus for Members of Parliament (MPs) and Cabinet is on the cards, as calls grow for internal dialogue to restore unity and decorum within the legislative chambers.
The proposal for a private caucus, commonly referred to as ‘egumeni’, was put forward by Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla during yesterday’s sitting of the House of Assembly.
Her remarks came amid a submission that was sought by Mbabane East MP Welcome Dlamini, who sought clarity regarding remarks allegedly made by Prime Minister (PM) Russell Mmiso Dlamini at Senate.
The matter ignited debate across the floor, with MPs expressing concern over what was described as conduct that could undermine the integrity and standing of Parliament.
Rising on Standing Order 66, MP Welcome questioned the appropriateness of a member allegedly criticising the House in another chamber.
“What advice would you give, Speaker, with the assistance of the learned attorney general, regarding our conduct as members, whereby one of our own goes to the other chamber and speaks badly about this House and its members?” he asked.
“Effectively, that brings this House into disrepute. The member said this House is not honourable and alleged that decisions are influenced by bribes. He further questioned the Constitution which we are all sworn to defend.”
Dlamini further argued that such statements, if true, painted Parliament as failing in its constitutional duty.
“As Parliament, we should be seen protecting the Constitution, yet we are seemingly poking at it. Are we still worthy of the offices we hold if we question the very Constitution blessed by His Majesty?” he added.
Speaker Jabulani Mabuza, however, was cautious in his response, noting that no specific member had initially been named. “It becomes difficult for me to comment when the member in question has not been identified,” said Mabuza. “But generally speaking, it is not good for members of either House to ridicule one another. We must maintain respect and uphold the dignity of Parliament.”
Even after Dlamini later identified the PM as the subject of his concern, the Speaker maintained his earlier stance, urging restraint and mutual respect among members.
The exchange drew further contributions from seasoned Lobamba Lomdzala MP Marwick Khumalo, who pressed for greater openness in addressing contentious issues.
“Speaker, with due respect, this is a political forum. These matters should not be swept under the carpet. We must be given the opportunity to speak,” MP Marwick argued.
While acknowledging the Speaker’s ruling, he insisted that MPs had a right to express themselves when the institution’s integrity was at stake.
Attorney General Sifiso Mashampu Khumalo, when invited to weigh in, clarified that he could not comment on the specific allegations due to lack of verified facts, but emphasised that parliamentary conduct is governed by Standing Orders.
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