…By Roland Peterson for TDPel Media.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has decided not to pursue legal action against the Section 89 report, commonly known as the Phala Phala report, which called for his impeachment.
According to presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, the parliamentary process that took place in December has effectively addressed the issue.
Despite attempts by opposition parties to revive the motion after the report was rejected by the ANC in Parliament, their efforts were unsuccessful.
Respect for Constitutional Court’s Decision
Magwenya explained that Ramaphosa had initially taken the matter directly to the Constitutional Court, as he believed it belonged there.
However, the court declined to hear his application in March, and Ramaphosa respects this decision.
In light of Parliament’s rejection of establishing an impeachment committee, Ramaphosa was advised that there is no basis to proceed with the legal challenge against the Section 89 report.
Magwenya stated that the president may consider legal action in the future if circumstances change.
Report Rendered Moot
The rejection of the motion to refer the panel report to an impeachment committee by the National Assembly has rendered the report moot, according to Magwenya.
As long as the decision remains in effect, the report holds no practical or legal consequence.
Ramaphosa has obtained legal advice on the matter and concurs that there is no basis to continue the court application against the report.
Background on the Phala Phala Report
The panel, led by retired Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo, was established by Parliament to assess whether Ramaphosa had a case to answer regarding the Phala Phala report.
In its findings, the panel recommended initiating the impeachment process.
However, the majority of parliamentarians voted against the report, leading to its rejection.
Potential Future Developments
While Ramaphosa has chosen not to challenge the report at present, he reserves his right to pursue legal proceedings should circumstances change.
The president faces allegations and calls to step down related to claims of covering up the theft of millions of dollars in U.S. currency concealed within furniture at his game farm.