Prosecutors have announced they will not press criminal charges against President Cyril Ramaphosa over the “Farmgate” scandal that shook his presidency two years ago.
The scandal started when former spy boss Arthur Fraser accused Ramaphosa of mishandling the theft of $4-million (about R70-million) in cash from his luxury Phala Phala game farm in Limpopo.
Allegations included money laundering, tax evasion, and violations of currency laws.
Ramaphosa denied any wrongdoing, saying the money came from legitimate buffalo sales.
He admitted the theft of the money from the couch in his farmhouse but disputed the amount and said he had reported the incident to the police.
After what it called a “comprehensive investigation,” the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said there wasn’t enough evidence to charge Ramaphosa.
NPA spokesman Mthunzi Mhaga wrote in a statement: “The available evidence presented to prosecutors cannot sustain any charge.”
This decision follows last year’s clearance of Ramaphosa by the anti-corruption watchdog and comes after he survived an impeachment attempt in 2022, thanks to support from the ANC.
The three individuals accused of breaking into his farm will face trial next month on charges of money laundering and house-breaking.
Although Ramaphosa is in the clear as far as the NPA is concerned, the possibility of a private prosecution by Ramaphosa’s political foes appears likely.
Ramaphosa was re-elected in June 2024 and formed the coalition government known as the Government of National Unity (GNU).
Compiled by Staff Writer
Pictured above: Cyril Ramaphosa.
Source: File
