Speaker Thoko Didiza Sets Timeline for Ramaphosa Impeachment Committee
National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza announced on 15 May 2024 that Parliament will move to the next stage of the Section 89 impeachment process concerning President Cyril Ramaphosa and the alleged Phala Phala farm theft. According to Didiza, a 31‑member ad‑hoc committee will be formed, with each of the 16 parties represented in the National Assembly nominating two members, except for the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA), which will each nominate three members to reflect their larger caucuses.
Background to the Phala Phala Allegations
The controversy stems from a 2022 investigation into a theft of approximately USD 580,000 from the Phala Phala game farm, which is linked to President Ramaphosa’s family trust. Opposition parties have argued that the incident constitutes a serious violation of the executive ethics code, triggering the constitutional provision for impeachment under Section 89.
Section 89 of the South African Constitution permits the removal of a president on grounds of “a serious violation of the Constitution or the law, serious misconduct, or incapacity.” The process begins with a resolution adopted by at least a third of the National Assembly members, followed by the establishment of an investigative committee.
Committee Formation and Deadlines
Speaker Didiza said that parties must submit the names of their nominees to the Office of the Speaker by 22 May 2024. Once the list is received, the Speaker will convene the committee within five working days to adopt its rules of procedure and set a timetable for hearings.
The committee’s mandate will be to:
- Review all evidence presented by the Public Protector, the Special Investigating Unit, and any parliamentary submissions.
- Allow the President and his legal team to respond to the allegations.
- Prepare a report recommending whether the matter should proceed to a full vote in the National Assembly.
If the committee finds sufficient grounds, the report will be tabled, and a debate will be scheduled. A successful impeachment requires a two‑thirds majority of the National Assembly’s 400 members.
Political Reactions and Expert Commentary
Business Day political correspondent Tara Roos noted that the move signals a “serious escalation” by opposition parties, which have been calling for accountability since the Phala Phala story first emerged in late 2022. Roos quoted constitutional law expert Professor Sipho Mbele from the University of Cape Town, who said:
“The formation of a multi‑party committee under Section 89 is a rare but constitutionally sound mechanism. Its credibility will hinge on the transparency of the nomination process and the committee’s adherence to evidentiary standards.”
Representatives from the ANC emphasized that the process must be “fair and evidence‑based,” while DA leader John Steenhuisen welcomed the committee as a step toward “restoring public trust in the presidency.” The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) reiterated their demand for a swift resolution, arguing that delays undermine democratic accountability.
What Happens Next?
Following the May 22 deadline, the Speaker’s office will verify the nominations and publish the final committee list. Public hearings are expected to commence in early June, with the committee aiming to conclude its deliberations within eight weeks, depending on the volume of evidence and witness availability.
Observers advise citizens to monitor the Parliamentary Monitoring Group’s website for updates on hearing schedules and to consult the official gazette for any procedural notices issued by the Speaker’s office.
