The independent panel established by Parliament says there maybe prima facie evidence that President Cyril Ramaphosa breached anti-corruption laws.

The findings which were made by the panel led by former Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo, found that:

“In light of all the information placed before the Panel, we conclude that this information discloses, prima facie, that the President may have committed:

264.1. A serious violation of sections 96(2)(a).

264.2. A serious violation of section 34(1) of PRECCA.

264.3. A serious misconduct in that the President violated section 96(2)(b) by acting in a way that is inconsistent with his office.

264.4. A serious misconduct in that the President violated section 96(2)(b) by exposing himself to a situation involving a conflict between his official responsibilities and his private business.”

In a statement released on Wednesday, president Cyril Ramaphosa says he is giving consideration to the report and an announcement will be made in due course.

PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA RESPONSE

“The Presidency has noted the report submitted to the Speaker of the National Assembly by the independent panel established in terms of Section 89 of the Constitution.

The Presidency also appreciates that according to the rules of the National Assembly. The NA also needs to consider the report and determine the most appropriate way forward.

The s89 process has presented an unprecedented and extraordinary moment for South Africa’s constitutional democracy. The conclusions of the panel require careful reading and appropriate consideration in the interest of the stability of government and that of the country. 

President Ramaphosa reiterates the statement he made in his submission to the independent panel. “I have endeavoured, throughout my tenure as President. Not only to abide by my oath but to set an example of respect for the Constitution, for its institutions. For due process and the law. I categorically deny that I have violated this oath in any way. I similarly deny that I am guilty of any of the allegations made against me.”

The President is also giving consideration to the report and an announcement will be made in due course.”