Opposition MPs stuck to their promise to give President Jacob Zuma a hard time in
Parliament.
The Presidency budget debate descended into chaos as MPs hurled insults at each other, with some even advising each other to seek psychological help.
“We want you in the tjoekie,” was heard coming from DA benches.
ANC MPs were on their feet as Democratic Alliance leader Mmusi Maimane led the anti-Zuma mudslinging during his speech - including name-calling such as “President Gupta” and telling MPs a vote for the presidency was a vote for the controversial family at the centre of state capture allegations.
“We cannot come and pretend that the presidency is not the headquarters of a Gupta empire, with President Zuma acting as a front for them,” said Maimane.
“This is a budget for president Gupta. Keep that in mind when you cast your vote.”
ANC MPs demanded an immediate withdrawal from Maimane, which he reluctantly did.
When Mbete advised DA Chief Whip John Steenhuisen to “go for anger management” classes, he hit back, saying the Speaker needed “some serious sessions of psychiatry”.
Maimane said those who approved Zuma’s budget vote were supporting a “mafia shadow state”.
Earlier Zuma said he’s not opposed to an inquiry into state capture.
The prez has just survived a motion of no confidence within his own party, hot on the heels of the leaking of damning emails, which allege the Guptas tried to get him residency in the United Arab Emirates.
“We fully support an inquiry as it would help uncover the facts and remove rumours about the extent of capture,” Zuma said.
Zuma said the only delay was that he believed former public protector Thuli Madonsela had infringed on his powers as president by directing him to appoint a judicial commission of inquiry in her recommendations in her “State of Capture” report.
“If this is left unattended, it would cause problems even for future heads of state as it sets a wrong precedent,” he said, adding he was seeking legal advice.
Zuma’s speech also focused on crimes against women and children, the economy and the new mining charter, among others.
The Economic Freedom Fighters did not attend proceedings.