Natasha Mazzone, the Parliamentary Chief Whip for the Democratic Alliance (DA), has received the Italian Order of the Star, the equivalent of a knighthood in that country, for her outstanding leadership in Parliament and for fighting for a just society in South Africa.
The award recognises the preservation and promotion of national prestige, promoting friendly relations and co-operation with countries and ties with Italy, and is awarded to Italian expatriates and foreign nationals. Mazzone’s father was born in Italy.
The DA congratulated Mazzone as one of the most prominent Parliamentary figures to fight the scourge of state capture. ‘She has fought tooth and nail to uncover evidence, which she later testified on before the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture. It was her relentless effort to fight the state capture and hold Parliament accountable during the dark phase of our democracy that is now in the public discourse. Her efforts are now internationally recognised and we will continue to fight for all South Africans as they deserve a better government in South Africa,’ according to the congratulatory press release issued by Federal Chairperson, Ivan Meyer.
‘This is testament to her devotion for democratic consolidation, good governance and a better South Africa for all. The DA would like to congratulate Natasha in receiving such a highly bestowed knighthood and is pleased and thankful to have someone of her calibre fighting on the side of democracy and constitutionalism.’