South African Opposition Leader Calls for President Ramaphosa's Resignation Amid Impeachment Proceedings

South African Opposition Leader Calls for President Ramaphosa's Resignation Amid Impeachment Proceedings

South African opposition leader Julius Malema has urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to step down following a Constitutional Court ruling that parliament had breached the constitution by blocking attempts to impeach him in 2022. The ruling could lead to new impeachment proceedings. Malema's Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and other opposition parties challenged the decision, which stemmed from a burglary at Ramaphosa's rural home where over $500,000 in cash was stolen from a sofa. The president denied any wrongdoing, but the theft raised questions about the source of the money.

Impeachment proceedings against Ramaphosa were halted in a parliamentary vote four years ago when the African National Congress (ANC) held a majority. However, since the 2024 general election, the ANC has been governing in a coalition. Malema supported the court's decision, suggesting that Ramaphosa should resign to focus on the impeachment process, as serving as president while facing impeachment could be challenging. The EFF, along with the African Transformation Movement, brought the case to the Constitutional Court.

Malema expressed confidence that ANC members would impeach Ramaphosa once they see the evidence. The controversy began in 2020 when funds were reportedly stolen from Ramaphosa's farm, with the president claiming the money came from selling a buffalo. Three individuals are currently on trial for the alleged theft. For more news from Africa, visit BBCAfrica.com and follow BBC Africa on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for updates.