South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced his plan to challenge a report suggesting he may have breached the constitution. This move follows a Constitutional Court ruling instructing Parliament to start impeachment proceedings against him. The report in question relates to the “Phala Phala” scandal, where $580,000 in cash was found at his private farm in February 2020.
Ramaphosa, while denying any wrongdoing, has agreed to cooperate fully with the relevant authorities. He stated that he will seek a judicial review of the Independent Panel’s findings promptly. The President emphasized that his decision is not meant to undermine Parliament but to ensure the accuracy of the report in legal and factual terms.
Despite opposition demands for his resignation, Ramaphosa has refused, pointing out that the court did not directly accuse him of any offense. He believes stepping down now would circumvent the constitutionally prescribed process. Ramaphosa concluded by reiterating his commitment to combatting crime and enhancing state institutions, as his administration continues its work.
House Speaker Thoko Didiza has confirmed Parliament’s compliance with the court’s ruling.
