Speaker, whatever happens in this House, we will not give up the fight. We have fought this Bill from the very first day it was tabled. And we will continue to do whatever it takes to defeat those who want to silence our citizens.
First, we will take the fight to the NCOP, where we will propose amendments, including a clause to protect those who disclose state information in the public interest. [Applause.] If the Bill in its current form is passed in that House, we trust that the President will send it back to Parliament. Surely, he will see that it is unconstitutional. [Interjections.] But, Mr Speaker, if this Bill is signed into law, I will lead an application to the Constitutional Court to have the Act declared unconstitutional. [Applause.]
In terms of section 80 of the Constitution, the support of one third of the members of this House will be enough to send this Bill directly to the Constitutional Court. I know that my colleagues on the opposition benches will support us. And I believe there are enough ANC MPs with a conscience who will do the right thing. [Interjections.]
Hon members, it is our duty to protect democracy. A Bill that poses a danger to our people's freedom is before us. Let us vote against it today. But if it is passed, let the message ring out from this House across South Africa: The ANC has abandoned the values of its founders exactly 100 years after it was formed. [Applause.] Mr Speaker, the DA will oppose the Bill. [Applause.]