WATCH | Tensions rise in Parliament over Phala Phala scandal

Ramaphosa

Cape Town – Opposition Members of Parliament walked out of a question-and-answer session with President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday amid growing political tensions linked to allegations of misconduct surrounding a 2020 break-in at one of his properties.

The President is facing claims that he concealed the incident from police and tax authorities, where large sums of foreign currency were allegedly stolen.

Ramaphosa has denied any wrongdoing in the matter.

The session in Parliament was disrupted after the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party raised a point of order, arguing that proceedings should not continue while the allegations remain unresolved.

The party demanded that Ramaphosa step down, a call the President rejected.

EFF chief whip Notando Nolutshungu also objected, further heightening the tensions in the chamber.

“We cannot sit here and listen to someone who does not respect the constitution,” Nolutshungu said.

Ramaphosa has insisted that he will not resign.

The political fallout comes as Parliament prepares to move forward with impeachment-related processes. The MK party’s intervention contributed to heightened tensions that ultimately led to opposition members walking out of the chamber.

The developments follow a recent ruling by the Constitutional Court, which found that a 2022 independent report into the matter should have been referred to an impeachment committee for further investigation.

According to the Constitution, removing a President requires a two-thirds majority in the 400-member National Assembly, making any impeachment outcome dependent on broad cross-party support.

Parliament has confirmed that a multi-party impeachment committee will be established to investigate the allegations before any vote on impeachment is considered.

However, no timeline has been provided for when the committee will begin its work or conclude its findings.

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