Staff Reporter
SOUTH African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that he will not resign following last week’s Constitutional Court judgment relating to the Section 89 impeachment process linked to the Phala Phala matter. ‘I therefore respectfully want to make it clear that I will not resign,’ Ramaphosa said, adding that the ruling does not compel him to step down and that he intends to challenge the independent panel’s report through a judicial review process.
Addressing the nation on Monday evening, Ramaphosa said the Constitutional Court found that aspects of the National Assembly’s handling of the Section 89 proceedings in 2022 were inconsistent with the Constitution. The court ordered that the report of the independent panel be referred to Parliament’s impeachment committee unless it is set aside on review.
Ramaphosa reiterated his respect for the Constitution, the judiciary and the rule of law, while confirming that he would seek an urgent judicial review of the panel’s findings.
The President said the allegations stem from the theft that occurred at his Phala Phala farm in February 2020. He maintained that he had not stolen public money, committed any crime or violated his oath of office, adding that he had cooperated with all investigations and inquiries into the matter.
Ramaphosa argued that the independent panel’s report was flawed and based on hearsay allegations, saying no sufficient evidence had been presented to prove any constitutional violation or serious misconduct.
He said the Constitutional Court judgment did not make any findings on his alleged conduct or determine whether there was prima facie evidence justifying impeachment.
Ramaphosa said resigning would undermine efforts to rebuild state institutions, combat corruption and continue reforms aimed at renewing South Africa’s economy and governance structures.
He added that he remained committed to completing the mandate given to him by the people of South Africa and vowed to continue strengthening democratic institutions and the rule of law.
Photo: News24
