A parliamentary session turned contentious this week when an Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) MP called out an African National Congress (ANC) minister for eating during a live debate on student hardships, labeling the act “insensitive” amid nationwide concerns over youth hunger.
The confrontation unfolded during a National Assembly discussion on pressing education issues, including the ongoing NSFAS funding crisis. The EFF representative, whose identity remains undisclosed, interrupted proceedings after observing the minister casually dining while students’ struggles were being addressed.
“How can you sit here eating when students are starving?” the MP challenged. “This isn’t a dinner party—it’s Parliament. Young people are skipping meals to afford education, and your actions show utter disregard for their suffering.”
The GNU Minister of High Education: Nobuhle Pamela Nkabane
– unprofessional
– disrespectful
– not smart
– refuses to answer questions in committees
– incompetentWe really cannot have such as our minister, South Africans deserve better
— MK Party Stun (@XFactor079) May 31, 2025
EFF MP Sihle Lonzi presses Higher Education Minister Dr Nobuhle Nkabane to reveal the names of her advisors, following the contentious appointment of Buyambo Mantashe son of ANC Chairperson Gwede Mantashe to the MERSETA board.
The incident sparked widespread debate over alleged… pic.twitter.com/mYgEvAB7dR
— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) May 30, 2025
The remark divided the chamber, drawing support from opposition benches and defensive reactions from ANC members. On social media, the incident went viral, with #ParliamentFeast and #StudentHunger sparking outrage. Many citizens applauded the MP’s stance as emblematic of leadership disconnect, while student groups echoed the sentiment.
“The symbolism couldn’t be clearer,” said a student union spokesperson. “While politicians enjoy meals, learners are rationing food to survive.”
The unnamed minister has not yet responded publicly, but the clash has intensified scrutiny over political accountability during South Africa’s worsening inequality crisis. As public frustration grows, the incident underscores the widening gap between policymakers and the populations they represent.
With youth unemployment and education access remaining critical issues, such confrontations highlight the urgent need for leaders to align their actions with the realities of those they serve. The fallout continues as citizens demand greater sensitivity from elected officials.
