South Africa's Ramaphosa refuses to resign over 'Farmgate' cash-in-sofa scandal
On Monday, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa rejected calls for his resignation related to a scandal where foreign currency was found hidden in a sofa at his farm. In a televised statement, he recognized a recent constitutional court ruling that revived impeachment proceedings against him and pledged to fight for his position. He stated, "While some are urging my resignation, the Constitutional Court’s ruling does not require me to step down." Dubbed "Farmgate" by the press, this issue has been a major embarrassment since it surfaced in 2022, especially given Ramaphosa's promises to tackle corruption and enhance the ANC's image. With municipal elections approaching in November, pressure is increasing on the ANC, which is expected to face challenges. Analyst Daniel Silke remarked, "The timing couldn't really be worse … from an ANC perspective."
Key facts
- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa faced calls to resign on Monday over the 'Farmgate' scandal.
- Thieves stole bundles of foreign currency hidden in a sofa on Ramaphosa's ranch.
- Ramaphosa gave a televised address rejecting resignation calls.
- He respects a constitutional court ruling that revived impeachment proceedings against him last week.
- Ramaphosa pledged to defend himself against the impeachment proceedings.
- The scandal broke in 2022 and has been a major embarrassment for Ramaphosa.
- Ramaphosa came to power on an anti-corruption pledge.
- Municipal elections are scheduled for November, with the ANC expected to perform poorly.
Entities
Institutions
- African National Congress
- Constitutional Court
Locations
- South Africa