National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has declined a request by the African Transformation Movement (ATM) and the United Democratic Movement (UDM) for a secret ballot vote in the impeachment of embattled Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane.

The vote will take place on September 11, followed by the vote to appoint current Deputy Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka to head the institution on September 21.

Mapisa-Nqakula believes that a closed voting procedure would deprive citizens, who have a significant public interest in the matter, from identifying their representatives' positions and hold them accountable.

The speaker acknowledged the ATM and UDM’s reasons for a secret ballot but emphasised the importance of following established democratic procedures and the equal voting rights of all members of the Assembly.

“The Speaker has considered the prevailing atmosphere in the Assembly and South Africa, finding that it is not toxic or highly charged to warrant a secret ballot. The robustness of the proceedings and the manner in which opposing views have been openly canvassed both by members and the public is seen as indicative of a healthy democracy,” Parliament added.

The Speaker has also considered the argument that party discipline might influence members' votes but highlights that it is an inherent aspect of party politics and the current electoral system.

She notes that the role of Chief Whips in directing representatives to vote in line with a party's predetermined position has been noted, however, the Speaker also notes that this does not preclude members from voting with their conscience.

“In addition, the Assembly may only remove a Chapter 9 office bearer on established grounds of misconduct, incompetence or incapacity and therefore any unlawful attempt by the Assembly to remove an office bearer may be subject to judicial review,” she said.