Impeachment of Ramaphosa
On Tuesday, November 26, a vibrant crowd of Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) supporters gathered outside the Constitutional Court in Johannesburg. Meanwhile, they eagerly watched the proceedings unfold on a massive screen.
The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as two opposition parties aimed to initiate the impeachment of Ramaphosa. This move was driven by the controversial PhalaPhala scandal, which has captured national attention. 
Demanding Accountability: The Impeachment of Ramaphosa
Thebe, a fervent supporter, articulated the frustrations of many present, stating, “All we want is for the president not to abuse his power the same way that former President Zuma did at his private residence. We want Ramaphosa to explain where the money that was found at Phala came from. The ANC always uses its majority in Parliament to protect each other.”
This scandal erupted in 2022 when revelations surfaced about over half a million dollars in cash stolen from one of Ramaphosa’s farms, a secret that has stirred public outrage.
Despite the serious implications, a parliamentary vote, where Ramaphosa enjoyed a majority, previously shielded him from impeachment proceedings. EFF leader Julius Malema passionately called for a comprehensive parliamentary investigation, declaring, “We are here to hold the executive accountable. The ANC came inside court to defend corruption. To defend a man who did not dispute that there was money at his farm.”
More on the Impeachment
Malema confidently addressed the enthusiastic crowd, asserting, “Comrades, we are going to win this case against Ramaphosa. And we’ll call him back in parliament and we’ll start an impeachment process because the ANC used its majority in an unconstitutional manner.”
The EFF, alongside the African Transformation Movement (ATM), argues that Parliament failed to fulfill its constitutional duty to hold the president accountable.
While Ramaphosa has received clearance from financial authorities, a public watchdog, and police following a criminal investigation, the potential revival of impeachment hearings poses significant risks for the leader of Africa’s most advanced economy.
Moreover, Ramaphosa, who secured reelection for a second term in June with the backing of coalition partners, faces an uphill battle. The EFF and ATM, being smaller parties, would need support from other members within the ANC-led coalition government to successfully pursue the impeachment of Ramaphosa. But, this scenario however seems unlikely.
The Constitutional Court typically takes weeks, if not months, to deliver a ruling, leaving the future of the impeachment proceedings shrouded in uncertainty. As the situation develops, the call for accountability resonates strongly among supporters, underscoring the ongoing struggle for political integrity in South Africa.
Generally, the impeachment of Ramaphosa could reshape the political landscape, as citizens demand transparency and justice from their leaders.
Read More:
