By By Elizabeth Ugbo
South Africa’s parliament will establish an impeachment committee to investigate President Cyril Ramaphosa over the “Farmgate” scandal after the Constitutional Court revived the case on Friday. The inquiry will examine allegations linked to the 2020 theft of $4 million hidden inside a sofa at Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala farm. Opposition parties, including the Economic Freedom Fighters and the African Transformation Movement, pushed for the probe, while Ramaphosa insists he will not resign.
Constitutional Court Orders New Inquiry
South Africa’s Constitutional Court ruled that parliament acted inconsistently with the constitution when it blocked impeachment proceedings four years ago. As a result, parliament’s lower house confirmed on Monday that its speaker would establish a new impeachment committee.
The committee will review evidence connected to the scandal before deciding whether formal impeachment proceedings should continue. Lawmakers expect the process to last several months.
What Is the Farmgate Scandal?
The controversy centers on the alleged theft of $4 million in foreign currency from Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala game farm in 2020. Reports claimed the cash was hidden inside furniture instead of being deposited in a bank.
Critics questioned how the president obtained the money, whether authorities properly declared it, and why it remained hidden on the property.
Ramaphosa has repeatedly denied wrongdoing. He argued that the money came from legitimate farm business transactions.
Ramaphosa Refuses to Resign
In a national address on Monday evening, Ramaphosa said he respected the court’s ruling. However, he confirmed he would challenge an independent panel report that found preliminary evidence of misconduct.
The president also rejected calls to step down.
The Economic Freedom Fighters demanded his resignation immediately. Nevertheless, Ramaphosa still enjoys significant support in parliament.
ANC Backs Ramaphosa Despite Pressure
Ramaphosa’s party, the African National Congress, retained more than one-third of seats in the National Assembly despite losing its majority in 2024.
The ANC scheduled a National Executive Committee meeting on Tuesday to discuss the growing political crisis.
Even if the impeachment committee recommends action, Ramaphosa could survive a parliamentary vote because removing a president requires a two-thirds majority in the lower house.
Why the Impeachment Process Matters
The impeachment investigation could shape South Africa’s political future ahead of upcoming elections. Analysts believe the outcome may also affect public trust in anti-corruption reforms.
Ramaphosa entered office in 2018 with promises to fight corruption. Therefore, the Farmgate scandal continues to attract strong public and political attention.
