The African National Congress (ANC) has clarified that its decision to abstain from voting on the appointment of Advocate Thandazani Madonsela SC as evidence leader for Parliament’s Impeachment Committee was not an objection, but a formal disclosure that Madonsela had previously provided the ANC with legal advice on Section 89 parliamentary rules and processes, according to statements by ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula and Parliament spokesperson Moloto Mothapo on 8 August.

Disclosure Cited As Reason For ANC Abstention

Fikile Mbalula, in a letter to National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza, explained that while the ANC had received legal guidance from Madonsela, this information was disclosed for transparency. The party emphasised it does not question Madonsela’s integrity or independence. The Patriotic Alliance and Al Jamah parties also abstained from the same vote.

Parliament spokesperson Moloto Mothapo stated that, “The ANC states that the disclosure does not constitute an objection to the committee’s decision, nor does it question the integrity or independence of Adv Madonsela SC, but is intended to place the information formally on record before the process is concluded.”

Political Relevance And Process Implications

The abstention comes at a sensitive time as Parliament oversees high-stakes impeachment proceedings. Section 89 parliamentary rules set the basis for such processes, and prior relationships between the ANC and Madonsela could draw scrutiny. However, both the ANC and Parliament maintain that the disclosure does not affect Madonsela’s suitability for the evidence leader role.

The ANC’s stance highlights the need for openness in parliamentary proceedings. The Impeachment Committee will continue its work with Madonsela as evidence leader, and Parliament is expected to formally conclude the appointment process soon.