Cape Town – The Ethics Committee has delivered a firm warning to Members of Parliament (MPs) regarding their obligations under the Code of Ethical Conduct, following the adoption of five committee reports by the National Council of Provinces (NCOP). These reports have brought to light a concerning pattern of misconduct among certain parliamentarians.
Co-chairperson of the Ethics Committee, Joseph Britz, stressed the critical importance of ethical conduct for maintaining the integrity of Parliament. He cautioned that persistent disregard for the ethical code would result in more severe penalties for those found in violation.
Britz announced that the committee has resolved to undertake a comprehensive review of the Code of Ethical Conduct and members’ interests. "This review will focus on strengthening enforcement mechanisms, adopting provisions relating to visual conduct, and enhancing deterrence for repeated violations," he stated. Further details regarding the public participation process for this review are expected to be announced in early 2026.
The Ethics Committee's findings, presented to the NCOP, detailed complaints lodged against several prominent figures, including Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Ian Cameron, African National Congress (ANC) MP Windy Plaatjies, and National Coloured Congress leader Fadiel Adams.
One of the most notable cases involves Deputy President Paul Mashatile. The committee has mandated that he be formally reprimanded and fined R10,000 for failing to declare a gift to his wife in the confidential section of his financial disclosure documents. This sanction serves as a crucial reminder to all MPs about the importance of transparency and diligence in declaring any gifts received during their tenure, according to ANC MP Malesela Frans Mokwele.
In another instance, DA MP Ian Cameron faced disciplinary action for comments made following the acquittal of several members of the VIP Protection Unit associated with Mashatile. The complaint against Cameron was filed by Popcru’s second deputy general secretary, Chakale Mahlatsi. As a result, Cameron has received a reprimand and has been cautioned to exercise greater caution in his public statements going forward.
National Coloured Congress leader Fadiel Adams has also been found to have breached the ethical code for a second time. The committee determined that Adams publicly disclosed the personal information of a DA staff member on social media without obtaining the necessary permission. This action prompted DA chief whip George Michalakis to lodge a formal complaint. As a consequence of his actions, Adams will not only receive a reprimand but will also be suspended from parliamentary debates and committee meetings for a period of 20 days. During this suspension, his salary and allowances will be reduced accordingly.
The Ethics Committee also addressed complaints concerning ANC MP Windy Plaatjies and DA MP Ian Cameron, which stemmed from separate complaints filed by academic Mary de Haas and Central Karoo District Municipal manager Jackson Penxa, respectively. However, after thorough consideration, the Ethics Committee determined that these particular complaints were unfounded.
Speaking on the findings of misconduct by the Ethics Committee, ANC MP Malesela Frans Mokwele reiterated his party’s commitment to ethical conduct as a cornerstone of governance. He affirmed that the ANC has always placed ethical conduct as its highest guard on the need to advance the ethical and developmental state. Mokwele further stated that the ANC supported the findings against the other MPs.
The Ethics Committee's recent actions underscore the importance of upholding ethical standards within Parliament. The comprehensive review of the Code of Ethical Conduct, scheduled for early 2026, signals a proactive step towards strengthening enforcement mechanisms and ensuring greater accountability among MPs. The outcomes of these cases serve as a reminder that all members are expected to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and transparency in their conduct. The public participation process in the upcoming review will be crucial in shaping a more robust ethical framework for Parliament.
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