South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has rejected growing calls for his resignation following a Constitutional Court ruling connected to the controversial Phala Phala farm scandal, insisting that the judgment does not require him to step down from office.
In a national address delivered on May 11, 2026, Ramaphosa said attempts to force him out were politically motivated efforts aimed at destabilising South Africa at a critical time for the country’s economy and democratic institutions.
The president also confirmed that he plans to challenge the findings of the Section 89 independent panel report, which concluded that he may have violated his oath of office in relation to the handling of foreign currency stolen from his Phala Phala farm in 2020.
The scandal centres around the theft of a large sum of undeclared foreign currency hidden at the president’s private game farm, raising questions over transparency, reporting procedures, and possible abuse of power.
Opposition parties and critics have continued to demand accountability, with some calling for Ramaphosa’s immediate resignation.However, Ramaphosa firmly denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that he committed no crime and did not misuse public funds.
The Economy and Corruption Practices
He stressed that the money involved was linked to legitimate business activities and not state resources.“I have not stolen any public money, nor have I committed any criminal offence,” Ramaphosa stated during the address, while reaffirming his commitment to serving out his presidential term.
The South African leader further argued that his administration remains focused on implementing economic reforms, strengthening state institutions, tackling corruption, and restoring investor confidence in Africa’s most industrialised economy.
The Phala Phala controversy has remained one of the biggest political challenges facing Ramaphosa’s presidency, deepening divisions within the ruling African National Congress and intensifying pressure from opposition groups ahead of future political contests.
Despite mounting criticism, Ramaphosa signalled that he has no intention of stepping aside, setting the stage for what could become another major political and legal battle in South Africa’s evolving democratic landscape.
