WC Deputy Speaker Beverley Schäfer’s appeal for conduct violations to be heard in secret

The Western Cape Parliamentary appeals committee on Wednesday, to hold the hearing on Beverly Shäfer’s breach of the code of conduct behind closed doors, excluding the public and press.

Opposition parties criticized the decision, emphasizing the need for transparency in the five-year-long matter. ANC leader Cameron Dugmore criticized the closed hearing as a “disgrace,” highlighting provisions for open committee meetings in the national Constitution. EFF’s Aishah Cassiem accused the DA of protecting white representatives differently than black representatives.

Schäfer, Western Cape legislature’s deputy speaker, found guilty in 2022 of breaching the code of conduct for not returning a state-funded BMW X5.

Schäfer continued using the BMW despite an Audi Q5 allocated to her, leading to a probe by the legislature’s conduct committee.

The conduct committee recommended a reprimand, a fine of R17,800.67, and a seven-day suspension of Schäfer’s privileges and right to participate in debates or committees.

Schäfer appealed the verdict, leading to an appeal committee’s establishment by the legislature.

The appeals committee decided, on Wednesday, to hold the hearing behind closed doors, excluding the public and press. Opposition parties, including the ANC and EFF, expressed displeasure.

Schäfer’s refusal to return the BMW was cited as damaging the legislature’s reputation, with a report recommending penalties for breaching the code of conduct.

The ministerial handbook sets a limit on the vehicle price based on the member’s remuneration package. Schäfer’s salary shift from MEC to deputy speaker should have adjusted the acceptable vehicle price.

The hearing’s closure sparked criticism, with opposition parties questioning the justification, emphasizing the need for transparency and resolution after a five-year process.

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