EFF rejects nonsensical Constitutional Court ruling on former Public Protector’s suspension

13 July 2023

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) categorically reject the ruling by the Constitutional Court that President Cyril Ramaphosa had no personal gain to achieve in the suspension of former Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane.

The highest court, through Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, delivered a unanimous judgment stating that President Ramaphosa's suspension of Mkhwebane was justified. They found no conflict between his official duties and private interests and deemed his actions rational.

This is in contradiction to the Western High Court's earlier decision that the suspension of Mkhwebane was justifiably prompted by her investigation into President Ramaphosa, which exposed alleged corruption and abuse of power.

The court had also determined that Mkhwebane's suspension took place a day after she initiated an investigation into President Ramaphosa, leading to concerns of a potential conflict of interest.

The EFF has consistently emphasised that under President Ramaphosa's leadership, no law enforcement agency or accountability-seeking entity can freely investigate Phala Phala. This restriction appears to have extended to the judiciary as well.

Despite compelling evidence of criminal activity on the farm and the subsequent investigation, neither the South African Police Service (SAPS), the South African Reserve Bank (SARB), nor the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) have been able to hold him accountable.

Additionally, it has become clear that President Ramaphosa intentionally appointed Advocate Gcaleka as a replacement for Mkhwebane, leading to the release of a questionable report that absurdly absolves him of any conflict of interest.

This stands in contrast to the findings of the Section 89 Independent Panel, headed by former Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo, which presented compelling and logical arguments supporting the belief that Cyril Ramaphosa violated the South African Constitution in relation to the crimes associated with Phala Phala Farm.

The Phala Phala Farm scandal remains a severe case of corruption and a direct attack on South Africa's financial laws and justice system. The EFF maintains its steadfast dedication to holding President Ramaphosa accountable for his wrongdoing.

Issued by Sinawo Thambo, National Spokesperson, EFF, 13 July 2023