Serious accusations against the Speaker of Parliament, Thoko Didiza

Speaker of Parliament, Thoko Didiza, is accused of choosing political protection, forced on her by the ANC, over her constitutional duty.

This follows her decision not to oppose President Cyril Ramaphosa’s legal bid to interdict Parliament’s impeachment inquiry into the Phala Phala scandal.

On Friday, 19 June 2026, Didiza filed a notice which stated that she will abide by the Western Cape High Court’s decision on the matter.

Numerous reports suggested that Didiza’s decision reportedly goes against internal legal counsel. This has sparked immediate backlash from opponents.

Lerato Ngobeni, ActionSA Member of Parliament, said that they are disappointed, but not surprised by Didiza’s decision.

“This decision is a clear indication that the ANC has once again forced the hand of the Speaker, choosing political protection over constitutional duty,” she said.

The impeachment committee resolved on Thursday to oppose the President’s application, in line with its responsibility to ensure accountability.

“By refusing to act, the Speaker undermines Parliament’s obligation to serve as a check on executive power,” she said.

“It sends the wrong message to South Africans about accountability at the highest office in the land.”

Sifiso Mahlangu, national spokesperson of the MK Party, rejects the decision by the Speaker of the National Assembly.

“This decision is deeply concerning because it risks weakening Parliament’s constitutional duty to hold the executive accountable,” the MK Party said.

“The National Assembly has a responsibility to protect its processes and ensure that accountability mechanisms are not undermined.”

“Where Parliament’s legal processes have produced advice supporting a particular action, any decision to depart from that position must be carefully justified.”

It said that failure to justify and explain such a departure raises concerns about Parliament’s independence and credibility.

It said that Parliament belongs to the people of South Africa and must remain an institution that protects transparency, oversight and the rule of law.