Thoko Didiza survives EFF motion of no confidence

South African National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza has survived a motion of no confidence tabled by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). During a virtual sitting on Wednesday, 282 Members of Parliament voted against the motion, while 101 voted in favor of her removal.

The EFF, led by Julius Malema, accused Didiza of failing to remain impartial and prioritizing political interests over constitutional responsibilities. The motion centered on her decision not to oppose a court application by President Cyril Ramaphosa, which temporarily halted public hearings regarding an impeachment inquiry.

Parties within the Government of National Unity (GNU) rallied to support the Speaker. The Democratic Alliance (DA) and ActionSA both rejected the motion, with the DA arguing that removing the Speaker over a legally permissible decision would set a concerning precedent.