Minister are blaming the long time it takes to compile responses to written parliamentary questions for their delayed responses.

This happens as parliamentarians are taking some ministers to task for failing to respond to written questions within the stipulated 10 days and the 10-day additional time.

Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi as well as her Social Development counterpart Sisisi Tolashe are the latest to find themselves having to explain themselves to MPs, instead of being reprimanded in the sitting of parliamentary session when found to be on the wrong side of the rules.

DA MP Janho Engelbrecht asked Kubayi to provide the reasons for not responding to his questions published on April 25 within the period stipulated by parliamentary rules.

In her response, Kubayi said she took her responsibilities and accountability very seriously.

“I am aware of the Rule 145(5) which stipulates that Parliamentary Questions should be responded to within 10 working days.

“I would like to confirm that the reply was submitted to Parliament on 22 May 2025, however, due to the process of sourcing the required information as well ensuring the integrity and accuracy of the response, as a result, the tabling of the said reply was delayed,” she said.

ActionSA MP Dereleen James enquired from Tolashe why she provided a reply to her written question only as late as 10 March, which was 12 working days from when the reply should have been provided.

James asked whether Tolashe has found that her failure to respond within the stipulated time frame undermined parliamentary accountability and oversight as provided for in the rules of the National Assembly and the provisions of the Constitution.

Tolashe said the delay with regards to the James’ response was regretted and she apologised.

She said the question required very extensive and detailed answers as it dealt with expenditures, to ensure that little or no mistake was committed.

“The nature of the question that the honourable member asked requires that we reconcile different records of all expenditures so that we can give an accurate account. The other issues were that (the) honourable member will realise that most of the officials are still new in the organisation; to recognise the need for asking for an extension while we compile her responses,” she said.

This development comes as Parliament published a report of outstanding parliamentary questions for both and written reply on August 1.

The report is prepared for submission to Leader of Government Business, Deputy President Paul Mashatile, to take up the non-compliance with affected ministers.

It shows that a total of 3,282 written questions were asked as at May 30.

At least 323 written questions were not responded to as at August 1.

Of the 228 oral questions as at May, only one remained unanswered – by Defence Minister Angie Motshekga.

The report records that suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has 97 outstanding written replies, followed by Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube with 20, Communications and Digital technologies Minister Solly Malatsi 18 and Motshekga 17.

Those who have yet to provide replies to written questions ranging between 12 and 16 include Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, Human Settlements  Minister Thembi Simelane, Land Reform and Rural Development Mzwanele Nyhontso and Minister in the presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.

mayibongwe.maqhina@inl.co.za

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