Scandal and Critique: President Ramaphosa Faces Rising Opposition

Naledi Chirwa tells the president ‘You failed’ during the Opening of Parliament address debate. (youtube.com)

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa finds himself entangled in a growing web of political and legal challenges, highlighted by sharp criticism and a legal battle initiated by Zimbabwean national Tichaona Mupasiri. Mupasiri has taken the South African President to court, accusing him of failing to fulfill his constitutional duty to establish a commission of inquiry into the prosecution and operation of Zimbabwe’s Reconstruction Act within South Africa. Mupasiri’s legal action includes a detailed letter to Mr. Malape, the state attorney, and copies sent to the Speaker of the South African Parliament, emphasizing the perceived infringement on South African sovereignty by Zimbabwe through these laws.

The controversy intensified when Naledi Chirwa, an EFF (Economic Freedom Fighters) member of the National Council of Provinces, delivered a blistering speech during the parliamentary debate on the President’s opening address. In her speech, Chirwa did not mince words, accusing President Ramaphosa of failing to address critical issues such as unemployment, poverty, and youth disenfranchisement during his tenure. She described the situation as the “Ramaphosa economy,” characterized by widespread joblessness and poverty, which she claims has left many South Africans, particularly the youth, in a state of dependency.

Chirwa’s speech was a direct attack on Ramaphosa’s promises and performance, pointing to unfulfilled commitments such as the creation of 275,000 jobs annually from the 2018 Jobs Summit and the promise of 2 million jobs in 2019. She highlighted the continuing crisis of gender-based violence and femicide, despite it being one of Ramaphosa’s stated priorities.

The speech resonated with many, especially the EFF MPs who showed their approval with a standing ovation. Chirwa’s remarks also came against the backdrop of the VBS Mutual Bank scandal, where allegations surfaced about the EFF receiving illicit funds. Despite these allegations, Chirwa asserted that the youth are aware of the “true criminals” responsible for various socio-economic injustices in South Africa, including thefts related to land, public funds, and essential services.

Chirwa’s rhetoric escalated as she drew historical parallels, urging the youth to prepare for a struggle reminiscent of past South African resistance movements. She invoked the legacies of Nelson Mandela, Robert Sobukwe, Steve Biko, Winnie Mandela, and Julius Malema, suggesting that the current generation must be ready for character assassination and false accusations in their fight for economic freedom.

Adding fuel to the fire is the Phala Phala Farm scandal, where President Ramaphosa was implicated in a controversy involving large sums of U.S. dollars found hidden at his farm. The incident has raised serious questions about money laundering, further complicating the President’s position. Critics argue that the presence of such a substantial amount of foreign currency raises suspicions of undeclared income and potential violations of financial regulations. The scandal has not only tainted Ramaphosa’s image but has also provided ammunition for his detractors, who point to it as evidence of corruption and financial misconduct at the highest levels of government.

The Phala Phala Farm incident has intensified calls for accountability and transparency, with opposition parties and civil society groups demanding a thorough investigation. This scandal, coupled with the allegations of failure and negligence in various areas of governance, presents a formidable challenge to Ramaphosa’s leadership.

As President Ramaphosa navigates these allegations and criticisms, his administration’s response will be closely watched. The outcome of Mupasiri’s legal action, the fallout from the Phala Phala Farm scandal, and the EFF’s continued pressure could have significant implications for South Africa’s political landscape and Ramaphosa’s leadership. The President’s ability to address these issues transparently and effectively will be crucial in determining his political future and the trust of the South African public.