The Presidency, represented by spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, has officially responded to the final report on the Phala Phala saga released by acting Public Protector advocate Kholeka Gcaleka. The report clears President Cyril Ramaphosa of alleged abuse of power or breaches of the Executive Ethics Code, a stance he has consistently maintained.
Gcaleka’s comprehensive year-long investigation examined the allegations brought forth by four complainants, including Vuyo Zungula from the African Transformation Movement (ATM), John Steenhuisen from the Democratic Alliance (DA), and members of the public. These complaints contended that Ramaphosa may have violated the Executive Member’s Ethics Code.
The report’s findings revealed no substantiating evidence supporting claims that the president engaged in any form of paid work while serving as the head of state. Additionally, Gcaleka found no indications of power abuse or conflicts of interest arising from the president’s private interests conflicting with his executive responsibilities.
Opposition parties have expressed widespread rejection of the investigation’s outcomes, and some are currently pursuing a judicial review of the report. However, the Presidency, speaking on behalf of Ramaphosa, has acknowledged the report’s release and reaffirmed the president’s steadfast denial of any wrongdoing or violation of his oath of office.
Vincent Magwenya, the presidential spokesperson, emphasized that Ramaphosa has consistently maintained his innocence regarding allegations of abuse of power or breaches of the Executive Ethics Code. The Presidency stands firm on its position, welcoming the findings of the acting Public Protector’s report that absolve the president of any misconduct in the Phala Phala saga.