ANC accuses judiciary of 'policing political decisions'
The African National Congress (ANC) has expressed concern over the High Court in Pretoria's ruling, which ordered President Jacob Zuma to hand over documents explaining his recent cabinet reshuffle.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) approach the court, saying the party believes it is entitled to know the reasons behind the decision taken, since it had major repercussions.
"This judgment signifies unfettered encroachment of the judiciary into the realm of the executive - pandering to the whims of the opposition who want to co-govern with the popularly elected government through the courts," says the ANC's Zizi Kodwa.
Kodwa says the Constitution provides the president with the power to constitute his Cabinet, without imposing an obligation upon him to consult opposition parties.
"To read into the Constitution that the president must explain himself on the composition of the National Executive to the opposition, is to use the judiciary to police political decisions and sets a very worrisome precedent.
"The appointment of Ministers and Deputies as well as reshuffling of Cabinet is a discretionary and political decision of the President of the Republic derived from the Constitution, hence we urge the President to appeal this judgment," says Kodwa.