The Democratic Alliance (DA) says it will participate fully in the parliamentary impeachment process following a Constitutional Court judgment relating to the Phala Phala matter and Section 89 proceedings against President Cyril Ramaphosa.
In a statement issued on Friday, DA leader Geordin Hill-Lewis described the ruling as a “grave moment” for Parliament, the Presidency and South Africa’s constitutional democracy.
The Constitutional Court ruled that Parliament must amend its rules and allow the Section 89 report process to proceed to an impeachment committee.
The DA said it respects the Constitutional Court, the Constitution and the rule of law, adding that it would approach the process based on the facts and evidence presented before the committee.
The party said it would not prejudge the outcome of the process, but maintained that no individual should be placed above accountability, regardless of their office.
According to the DA, the impeachment committee must conduct its work fairly, rationally and constitutionally, while ensuring that the President has the opportunity to respond fully and that Parliament is able to establish the facts.
The party said the judgment would have implications beyond the current Presidency and could influence how future presidents are held accountable by Parliament.
The DA also used the statement to contrast its stance with that of the ANC, arguing that accountability has often been delayed or avoided when politically inconvenient.
The party reiterated its position that constitutionalism, accountability and the rule of law must prevail.