Mzimasi Hala Replaces Malusi Gigaba As Defence Committee Co-Chair
The Joint Standing Committee on Defence has elected African National Congress (ANC) MP Mzimasi Hala as its new co-chairperson following the sudden removal of former minister Malusi Gigaba from the position.
Gigaba was relieved of his responsibilities on the committee by the ANC, which did not provide reasons for the decision.
The committee, which comprises members from both the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, announced the change on Wednesday, with co-chairperson Phiroane Phala confirming that Gigaba had been removed from his position.
Gigaba was elected as the National Assembly’s co-chairperson of the committee shortly after the 2024 general elections.
His removal has sparked tension within the committee, with opposition members questioning the circumstances surrounding his departure and whether the process followed the required parliamentary procedures.
Committee member Emma Powell questioned whether the committee had received a formal resignation letter from Gigaba and whether an official parliamentary notice had been issued declaring the position vacant.
The questions prompted a response from ANC MP Windy Plaatjies, who argued that the matter was an internal party decision and did not require an explanation to the committee.
The ANC has not publicly provided a reason for relieving Gigaba of his responsibilities.
Gigaba Facing Corruption Charges
Gigaba’s removal comes as he faces formal corruption charges linked to a Transnet contract.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) had previously called for Gigaba to step down as co-chairperson of the defence committee while he faced the criminal proceedings.
The former minister is also due to appear before the High Court in connection with the corruption case.
Gigaba previously served in several senior government positions, including as Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of Public Enterprises.
The appointment of Hala means the ANC will now have a new representative leading the committee’s National Assembly component alongside Phala.