PRESIDENT Jacob Zuma lashed out at unruly MPs today, saying they are damaging the image of the country.
It was his turn to respond after this week’s two days of debate over his State of the Nation Address (Sona) last Thursday.
Referring to the various disruptions during his Sona and the debate, Zuma said it was important for MPs to remember they were in Parliament to serve those who voted for them.
He said it was important how leaders conducted themselves, and thousands of South Africans were interested in hearing how their problems were being solved.
“I think we should change, we’re not doing any good for our voters. We have to think about the people who sent us here, what do they learn from us,” he said.
He said by disrespecting presiding officers (Speakers of the House), members were disrespecting other MPs as well.
Zuma pleaded with MPs to disagree with each other with respect, as the disruptions were affecting Parliament’s image in the country and abroad.
“I believe when we say 'honourable members' we mean it. We can’t call ourselves honourable but behave dishonourably . It is not helping image of country,” he said.
He said people’s understanding of South Africa changed for the worse when they saw chaos in the country’s Parliament.
