No word on defection timing
2003-03-05 18:11
Donwald Pressly
Cape Town - Floor crossing by national and
provincial elected politicians could happen as early as 10 days' time - but
government is staying mum on the issue at this stage.
The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Fourth Amendment Bill -
which will allow defection by politicians - is scheduled to be passed by the
second chamber of parliament - the National Council of Provinces - on
March 18. It has already been passed by the National Assembly.
After Wednesday's cabinet briefing, Cabinet spokesperson Joel Netshitenzhe
was
asked if the president would sign it into law on the day of its passage
through
the second chamber. He said: "I do not know.... I don't think we would
pre-alert
anyone about what would happen."
He said the legislation would go to the president for signature once the
NCOP approves of the measure.
Asked if the 15-day window period for
crossings
by MPs and provincial legislature members would apply quickly after passage
of
the legislation, he said: "I wouldn't know."
Last year municipal councillors were given a 15 day period in which to
cross the floor. Over 500 of them did so.
Legislation was struck down by the courts last year allowing floor
crossing
at the national and provincial level. However, the legislation before
parliament
corrects technical constitutional problems detailed by the court.
After last year's signing of the legislation five provincial
KwaZulu-Natal
legislature members announced their intention to switch from three
opposition
parties to the ruling ANC.
- News24