Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has sparked outrage among MPs for missing a crucial meeting of the Standing Committee on Friday. The chairperson of the National Conventional Arms Control Committee (NCACC) was expected to attend the meeting in person to receive the armaments body’s annual report.
Opposition members were particularly incensed, having formally resolved that the meeting should be attended in person by the minister. Ntshavheni’s absence drew harsh criticism, particularly following a previous meeting where the committee expressed serious concerns about the NCACC’s performance in regulating the armaments trade.
Opposition Parties React
DA MP Nicholas Gotsell was quick to challenge the proceedings, stating: “Until we know the reason why the minister is not here, we can’t adopt the agenda.” He highlighted the specific scheduling of the meeting to accommodate her presence. EFF MP Carl Niehaus echoed this sentiment, accusing Ntshavheni of a “deliberate malicious non-compliance” and impact on the briefing on the body’s annual report.
In her absence, Ntshavheni sent an apology letter citing an incorrect invitation format from the committee secretariat, which she claimed indicated the meeting would be virtual. However, Committee Secretary Nandipha Maxhegwana countered, clarifying that those two official invitations had been sent, both specifying that the meeting was to be held physically.
Reasons for Absence
ANC’s Pitso Noe attempted to interject in defence of Ntshavheni, urging that reasons for her absence should first be addressed. This plea was met with little sympathy from the opposition, with DA MP Chris Hattingh saying Ntshavheni has a well-established history of defying accountability.
The meeting resolved that they would not receive an annual report from NCACC members, Deputy Ministers Andries Nel and Bantu Holomisa. Nel said it was the prerogative of the committee to regulate and conduct its affairs in terms of the parliamentary rules.
Some of the key issues that the committee wanted to discuss with Ntshavheni include:
- The NCACC’s performance in regulating the armaments trade
- The impact of the armaments trade on the country’s economy
- The role of the NCACC in promoting transparency and accountability in the armaments industry
For more information on the NCACC and its role in regulating the armaments trade, visit the Government of South Africa website or the Parliament of South Africa website.
