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The Presidency’s rejection of the DA’s call for a parliamentary debate on thestate deals that have benefitted President Zuma’s family and friends demonstrates a lack of respect for the principle of separation of powers. It is not up to the Presidency to reject a request for a parliamentary debate. This is the sole preserve and responsibility of the Speaker of the National Assembly.

The purpose of this special debate would not be, as the Presidency incorrectly asserted, to examine the President’s business interests. It is for Parliament to debate how so many of President Zuma’s family and friends have come to benefit from lucrative state deals since the President took office.

These allegations are a matter of public importance. All of us in this Assembly, as the representatives of the South African people, are duty bound to interrogate this state of affairs.

We hope, Mr Speaker, that you will assess the DA’s request on its merits, will respect the constitutional separation of the executive and the legislature, and will not allow the Presidency to undermine the authority of your office.