South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has reportedly secured backing from the African National Congress (ANC) National Executive Committee amid the ongoing “Farmgate” scandal involving cash allegedly stolen from his rural property.
According to reports by the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), the party’s top decision-making body expressed support for Ramaphosa during a meeting on Wednesday, offering him a crucial political lifeline as impeachment pressure intensifies.
The controversy, widely referred to as “Farmgate,” centres on allegations surrounding the theft of about $580,000 in foreign currency allegedly hidden inside a sofa at Ramaphosa’s farm in 2020. The case has raised questions about the origin of the money, whether it was properly declared, and why it was stored in furniture rather than deposited in a bank.
Ramaphosa has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has maintained that he respects legal and constitutional processes. Earlier this week, he said he would defend himself following a constitutional court ruling that revived impeachment proceedings against him.
“I respect the constitutional court ruling,” he said, adding that he was prepared to respond to the allegations through proper legal channels.
The ANC had previously blocked impeachment attempts in 2022, but the latest court decision has led to renewed parliamentary action. A committee is now expected to investigate the matter further, composed of 31 members drawn from all political parties in the National Assembly.
The ANC will hold the largest representation on the committee with nine members, followed by the Democratic Alliance with five.
Political analysts say Ramaphosa is likely to survive any final parliamentary vote, which would require a two-thirds majority—an outcome considered difficult given the ANC’s current seat share of around 40%.
The ANC reportedly postponed a scheduled briefing on the matter, adding further uncertainty to the party’s internal handling of the scandal.
Despite the political pressure, analysts suggest the renewed backing from the ANC leadership strengthens Ramaphosa’s position as the impeachment process moves forward.
