EFF MP Naledi Chirwa publicly expressed remorse after the party imposed a fine for her absence during last month’s budget speech in parliament, citing her baby’s illness as the reason.
Chirwa, an MP since 2019, disclosed that her four-month-old daughter’s illness prevented her from attending the budget speech, leading to her issuance of an apology on her social media platforms as part of the party’s disciplinary actions.
“I regret not attending parliament. My four-month-old daughter fell ill, prompting my absence. She is currently with my mother until post-election, allowing me to focus on organizational work and contribute to the EFF’s government plans post-May 29,” Chirwa explained.
The apology followed EFF leader Julius Malema’s commitment to hold MPs accountable for missing the impeachment vote on Western Cape judge president John Mandlakayise Hlophe on February 21.
Chirwa admitted to not following the correct reporting procedure, failing to inform the EFF parliament chief whip about her absence but reporting directly to the party.
She highlighted her attendance at the virtual platform of the portfolio committee for higher education on the same day, emphasizing the absence of a hybrid facility for the budget speech, preventing online participation.
As a consequence of her absence, Chirwa faced reprimand and was directed to purchase two EFF-branded gazebos before the end of the month, each costing R5,000.
Despite affirming her commitment to the party and accepting the reprimand, criticism emerged on social media, with some deeming the measure unnecessary.
This incident adds to the party’s history of facing criticism for disciplinary actions, including the expulsion of MP Vusi Khoza and 62 other EFF public representatives over the failure to arrange buses for the party’s 10th birthday celebration in July 2023.
