South Africa: No-Confidence Motion - Secret Ballot Gains Ground in Concourt

analysis

Does the Constitution allow, require or prohibit a secret ballot when it comes to motions of no confidence in the president? That's the question the Constitutional Court faced on Monday. Those pushing for a secret ballot made advances to their cause, but until the court rules on the case it's unclear which way it will turn. By GREG NICOLSON.

Eight hours after the hearing began, gasps filled the Constitutional Court as Marumo Moerane, counsel for National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete, came under fire from Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng. Moerane argued that secret ballots can only be introduced if the majority of the National Assembly agrees and that the Speaker is bound by past decisions, limiting her discretion.

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