EFF Marches to Constitutional Court Over Phala Phala Judgment

Johannesburg Streets to Turn Red as EFF Demands Accountability

Johannesburg is set to witness a major political demonstration as the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) march to the Constitutional Court to demand the long-delayed judgment on the Phala Phala farm matter. The march will begin at 10 am from Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown and proceed to the apex court.

The Phala Phala Controversy

The march highlights ongoing concerns over President Cyril Ramaphosa’s alleged involvement in corruption, bribery, kidnapping, and money laundering related to the theft of $580,000 from his Phala Phala farm in February 2020. A criminal case was opened on June 1, 2022, and an Independent Panel led by former Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo found prima facie evidence warranting parliamentary action.

EFF spokesperson Thembi Msane emphasised that Parliament’s rejection of the panel’s findings, allegedly influenced by ANC intimidationallowed the president to evade accountability. “The continued withholding of the Phala Phala judgment gives the impression that the president is above the law,” she said.

Constitutional Court Delays Frustrate Activists

The EFF first approached the Constitutional Court in November 2024 to overturn Parliament’s decision. Nearly a year later, the judgment remains unreleased, sparking accusations of judicial capture and systemic delays. The party insists the ruling should compel Parliament to hold the Executive accountable.

Judicial and Prosecutorial Roadblocks

A civil society organisation’s recent attempt to prosecute Ramaphosa in the Gauteng High Court was dismissed. Acting Judge Jacques Minnaar highlighted procedural inconsistencies and found no legal basis to force the Director of Public Prosecutions to act. Meanwhile, National Director of Public Prosecutions Shamila Batohi confirmed that the Limpopo DPP’s decision not to prosecute is under review by the Specialised Commercial Crime Unit.

EFF leader Julius Malema criticised Batohi for initially appearing uninformed about the case, arguing that delays erode public confidence in the justice system.

Public Reaction and Political Implications

Social media platforms have been abuzz with discussions about the Phala Phala saga, with many South Africans expressing frustration over perceived impunity at the highest levels of government. Analysts note that the march could reignite national debate about accountability, the rule of law, and the independence of South Africa’s judicial institutions.

As the EFF takes to the streets, the spotlight returns to South Africa’s Constitutional Court, highlighting tensions between political parties, public perception, and the judiciary’s role in ensuring transparency and justice. Citizens, activists, and policymakers alike are watching closely, anticipating whether this high-profile protest will finally push the long-awaited judgment into the public domain.

{Source: IOL}

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