Registrar debacle seen as DA ploy
THE Western Cape Legislature has been rendered toothless to enforce its own Code of Conduct and to investigate misconduct of its members who are paid close on R1 million a year in salaries. Following the resignation of committee chairperson Lennit Max and the registrar of members’ interests‚ Romeo Maasdorp‚ no further investigation can be conducted.
The ANC, however, said the drama involving Max and Maasdorp was a political ploy by the DA as the investigation into Western Cape DA leader Bonginkosi Madikizela had crumbled.
“We all know that this was the DA’s plan all along. They forced Maasdorp and Max to resign… They mishandled this whole process; what they are continuously missing is that the registrar for members’ interest is appointed by the House. It very different from appointing an official in the administration of the legislature,” an ANC spokesperson said.
Madikizela‚ who is also the housing MEC‚ is facing an inquiry by the Western Cape legislature conduct committee in relation to his failure to declare a R3 000 birthday cake bought for him by a friend who does business with his department.
The legislature is hiring a new registrar but the process is likely to be derailed. Legislature secretary Dr Gilbert Lawrence said the investigations into any misconduct can still be lodged, but “for now” they won’t be investigated.
“There are two components to the registrar of members’ interest. The registrar needs to complete a members register before April. The registrar also makes available a register of interest to those who may request it. I currently handle that matter. Investigations into any misconduct and complaints are dealt with by me. The complaint is sealed and I do not open it. Up until the new registrar is appointed it will be handed over,” he said.
According to Section 3 of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament Code of Conduct the registrar must be appointed by the House.
DA chief whip Mark Wiley said the process is still ongoing. “We will in the coming week shortlist candidates and from there the process will continue,” he said.