MK Party calls Parliament’s Russia visit an ‘assault on democracy’

The MK Party has accused Parliament of undermining democracy by excluding the official opposition from a parliamentary delegation visiting Russia. The party called the decision unconstitutional, undemocratic and damaging to South Africa’s international credibility.

Delegation to Moscow

The five‑member delegation, led by National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni‑Tsipane, is in Moscow from 13 to 17 July 2026 on a working visit intended to strengthen bilateral relations with the Russian Federation. Parliament said the visit forms part of broader efforts to deepen international parliamentary cooperation and ensure ties deliver meaningful benefits for citizens.

Who travelled and who did not

With the exception of one Al Jama‑ah MP, the delegation is composed entirely of ANC MPs. It includes NCOP MPs Sindiswa Masumpa and Sanny Ndhlovu, and National Assembly MPs Mogodu Samuel Moela and Imraan Ismail Moosa.

MK Party reaction and complaint

MK Party spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu said the exclusion “strikes at the heart of multiparty democracy” and represents a serious breach of constitutional norms. He said:

“This exclusion is not an administrative oversight – it is a deliberate act that undermines the constitutional principles of inclusivity, accountability, and proportional representation.”

He added that the Official Opposition carries a constitutional mandate to represent millions of South Africans and provide oversight on international engagements, saying:

“Denying the largest opposition party a seat at the table is a direct assault on democratic practice.”

Mahlangu warned the decision risks creating the perception that parliamentary diplomacy is being used to advance partisan interests, saying:

“Parliamentary diplomacy belongs to Parliament as an institution – not to any governing coalition or political arrangement. International engagements must reflect the diversity of voices in the legislature, not the preferences of a single political bloc.”

Following the delegation’s announcement, MK Party Chief Whip in the NCOP Lungile Mhlongo lodged a formal complaint with Mtshweni‑Tsipane, copying National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza. The complaint demands full disclosure of the selection criteria and a commitment to fairness in future delegations.

Parliament’s response

Parliament spokesperson Moloto Mothapo said Mtshweni‑Tsipane consulted the four largest parties before finalising the delegation, and that only those who confirmed availability were included. According to Mothapo, the others declined due to prior commitments.

Origin of the visit

Parliament said the visit followed an invitation from Valentina Matvienko, Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation.