Impeachment Inquiry: President Ramaphosa Declares He Will Not Resign
Pretoria – President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed his decision not to step down following last week’s Constitutional Court ruling, which instructed Parliament to refer the Phala Phala farm theft matter to an impeachment committee.
During a televised address to the nation on Monday, 11 May 2026, President Ramaphosa recognized the calls for his resignation, clarifying that the court’s ruling did not compel him to resign.
“The Constitutional Court did not make any findings regarding my alleged actions,” he stressed.
“I want to make it clear that I will not resign.”
The issue stems from a theft incident at Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala farm that occurred in February 2020.
An independent panel established by the National Assembly in 2022 uncovered prima facie evidence suggesting that the President might have been involved in serious misconduct and constitutional violations.
Nevertheless, Parliament, by a majority vote, chose not to forward the matter to an impeachment committee.
In an unexpected development on Friday, 8 May 2026, the Constitutional Court overturned that vote, stating that when a panel recommends an inquiry, Parliament is required to act “unless and until the report is set aside on review.”
President Ramaphosa indicated his plan to contest the panel’s report in court.
He had previously initiated legal proceedings but retracted them after Parliament opted not to act on the unfavorable panel’s findings.
“Based on guidance from my legal team… I have decided to expedite the review of the independent panel’s report,” President Ramaphosa remarked, adding that the conclusions were based on “hearsay allegations” and contained “serious legal inaccuracies.”
The President reiterated his respect for the judiciary and the rule of law, clarifying that his decision not to resign is not defiance but a commitment to ensuring that Parliamentary processes are grounded in facts and legality.
“I take this position out of respect for the Constitutional Court ruling and the judicial review principles it upholds and reinforces,” he elaborated.
Ramaphosa insisted that he has not misappropriated public funds, committed any crimes, or violated his oath of office.
He vowed to continue serving the people of South Africa, highlighting the progress made in fighting corruption, recovering stolen assets, and prosecuting offenders.
“Stepping down now would mean succumbing to those who wish to reverse the rejuvenation of our society, the restoration of our institutions, and the battle against corruption,” he declared.
Despite facing political hurdles, President Ramaphosa conveyed optimism about the nation’s future.
“Guided by the rule of law and the principle of accountability, I am committed to fulfilling and completing the mandate entrusted to me by you, the people.”