South Africa’s Top Court Orders Impeachment Probe Into Ramaphosa Over Phala Phala Scandal
Cape Town, South Africa – In a landmark ruling, Chief Justice Mandisa Maya has ordered Parliament to establish an impeachment committee to investigate President Cyril Ramaphosa over the Phala Phala farm scandal, where foreign currency was stolen under suspicious circumstances.
The Constitutional Court declared that Parliament acted unlawfully in 2022 when it shielded Ramaphosa from accountability, voting against an earlier impeachment process. The ruling has reignited fierce political debate, with opposition leaders accusing the African National Congress (ANC) of enabling corruption.
Court Rules Parliament’s Protection of Ramaphosa Unconstitutional
The scandal traces back to February 2020, when a large sum of foreign cash was stolen from Ramaphosa’s private game farm in Limpopo. An independent panel, led by retired Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo, later found that Ramaphosa may have violated anti-corruption laws and attempted to cover up the crime.
Despite the findings, the ANC-dominated Parliament voted in December 2022 to reject the panel’s report, effectively blocking impeachment proceedings. Chief Justice Maya ruled that this decision was unconstitutional, ordering Parliament to revise its rules and reopen the case.
Opposition Leaders Hail Ruling as Victory for Accountability
Outside the courthouse, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema rallied supporters, declaring the judgment a blow against ANC impunity.
“You cannot vote to protect criminality. You cannot vote to protect corruption—every decision must be based on rationality, not political loyalty,” Malema said.
Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Geordin Hill-Lewis echoed the sentiment, calling the ruling a turning point for South African governance.
“For too long, the ANC has delayed, diluted, or avoided accountability when it suits them,” Hill-Lewis said. “This committee must now act without fear or favor.”
Ramaphosa’s Legal Challenge Dismissed
The president had sought to dismiss the case, arguing that the legal challenge was filed too late. The court rejected this claim, paving the way for a fresh impeachment inquiry.
Political analysts say the ruling intensifies pressure on Ramaphosa ahead of the 2024 elections, with opposition parties likely to frame the scandal as emblematic of ANC corruption.
What Happens Next?
Parliament now has a constitutional duty to form an impeachment committee, which will determine whether Ramaphosa should face removal from office. Legal experts warn that the process could drag on for months, deepening political instability.
As South Africa watches closely, the case tests the nation’s commitment to the rule of law—and whether its leaders are truly above accountability.
— Reported by Nexio News
