In a plot twist that would make Shakespeare proud, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) members, including the ringmaster Julius Malema, have been handed a unique punishment for their 2023 State of the Nation Address (Sona) stage-storming shenanigans. Get ready for the “EFF Apology Tour Extravaganza!”
Following their disruptive dance on the Sona stage, the parliamentary powers and privileges committee decided that a simple “sorry” won’t cut it. Instead, the mischievous six, accused of contravening the Powers, Privileges, and Immunities Act, have been sentenced to a month-long apology marathon.
Starting February 1, 2024, and ending on February 29, the EFF members will embark on a nationwide tour to personally apologize to President Cyril Ramaphosa, Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, Parliament, and the good people of South Africa. Forget remuneration; this time, they’re paying in sincerity.
Advocate Anton Katz, the mastermind behind the hearing, remarked that the six EFF members “do not take Sona seriously.” Well, now they’ll take it seriously enough to apologize in person. It’s a punishment fit for a sitcom script, but alas, it’s the real deal.
While the EFF had grand plans to legally challenge the hearing, they withdrew faster than you can say “point of order.” Their legal representative, Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, tried for a postponement, claiming Parliament had a leisurely 10 months to prepare, but MPs only got a swift 10 days. The EFF called it a “sham,” but the committee wasn’t buying tickets to that show.
As the EFF members prepare their sincerest apologies and practice their remorseful faces, one thing is clear: the 2024 Sona will be missing some familiar faces. Who said politics can’t be a comedy?
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Tags: EFF Julius Malema