South African Parliament Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has announced she’s taking special leave amidst an ongoing corruption investigation.
Earlier this week, authorities raided Mapisa-Nqakula’s home as part of an inquiry into alleged corruption during her time as Minister of Defence.
Although authorities haven’t formally charged her, Mapisa-Nqakula has stated she’s willing to cooperate with investigators.
Despite asserting her innocence following the raid, she has chosen to temporarily step down from her role.
This move means she will not attend the 148th session of the Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland.
Mapisa-Nqakula has informed President Cyril Ramaphosa, Clerk of Parliament Xolile George, and the African National Congress party of her decision to take leave.
She made this decision independently to safeguard the integrity of Parliament.
Mapisa-Nqakula is accused of allegedly receiving R2.3 million ($121,465) from a contractor during her tenure as Minister of Defence.
Also Read: South African Parliament Speaker’s Home Raided In Corruption Probe
The accusations have been referred to the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests for investigation.
Parliament reiterated that the Speaker asserts her innocence and is cooperating with the investigation.
Opposition parties are urging Mapisa-Nqakula to step aside amidst the bribery allegations.
SABC