Young Communist League 'scandalised' at Zuma no confidence motion

The Young Communist League (YCL) scoffed at the notice of a motion of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma made by the DA in Parliament on Thursday.

 

"We are scandalised by the attempt by the Democratic Alliance and their friends to table an unprecedented motion of no confidence to oust the incumbent," YCL spokesman Khaya Xaba said.

"This action is frivolous and unnecessary. Parliament should be focusing on more pressing matters that will culminate in increased service delivery and improve the lives to our communities rather than entertaining publicity stunts by liberals and disgruntled dissidents like Mosiuoa Lekota of Cope," he said.

The YCL retained its "confidence" in Zuma and his administration's leadership.

"We would like to assure our people that there is order in the alliance and there is no need to be worried about this latest attack."

The "forgotten parties" which had joined the DA in its motion should rather focus on their "dwindling membership", the YCL said.

On Thursday, leader of the opposition in the National Assembly Lindiwe Mazibuko said the motion had been brought on the grounds "that under his [Zuma's] leadership the justice system has been politicised and weakened; corruption has spiralled out of control; unemployment continues to increase; the economy is weakening; and the right of access to quality education has been violated".

The motion was "mandated" by eight opposition parties: the African Christian Democratic Party, the Azanian People's Organisation, the Congress of the People, the DA, the Freedom Front Plus, the Inkatha Freedom Party, the United Christian Democratic Party, and the United Democratic Movement.

It was brought in terms of Section 102 of the Constitution.

This section states that "if the National Assembly, by a vote supported by a majority of its members, passes a motion of no confidence in the president, the president and other members of Cabinet and any deputy ministers must resign".

Cope leader Mosiuoa Lekota said the opposition parties were seeking a "secret ballot" on the matter in the House.

The ANC called it "silly".

Also on Thursday, ANC Chief Whip Mathole Motshekga gave notice of an ANC motion proposing that the Assembly "reaffirm its full confidence in the able leadership of President Jacob Zuma".