'Assault on democracy': MK party angry they were not part of Russia trip
The MK party in South Africa has criticized Parliament for excluding opposition members from a delegation visiting Russia. The party argues that the ANC-dominated delegation violates constitutional principles of proportional representation and inclusivity.
Why it matters
This highlights tensions regarding democratic oversight and parliamentary representation in South African foreign policy.
Parliament’s delegation at the Kremlin in Moscow. Picture: Parliament
The MK party has sharply criticised Parliament for excluding the official opposition from the parliamentary delegation currently on an official working visit to the Russian Federation, calling the move unconstitutional, undemocratic, and damaging to South Africa’s international credibility.
The delegation, led by National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni‑Tsipane, is in Moscow from 13 to 17 July 2026 to strengthen bilateral relations with the Russian Federation.
Parliament said the visit forms part of broader efforts to deepen international parliamentary cooperation and ensure that ties between the two countries continue to deliver meaningful benefits for citizens.
With the exception of one Al Jama‑ah MP, the five‑member delegation is composed entirely of ANC MPs – a decision the MK Party says violates long‑standing parliamentary conventions requiring international delegations to reflect proportional representation.
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