Deputy Speaker, today, as we debate Budget Vote 1 on the Presidency, we cannot ignore that the Phala Phala scandal, which continues to cast a dark shadow over the Presidency.
We are heartened, however, by the recent ConCourt ruling that ensured that Parliament finally does the right thing and establishes an Impeachment Committee. We hope this will help bring this matter to a close.
During the President’s inauguration speech in 2018, he spoke about the hope that was dawning for South Africa—this, particularly given the years of corruption and scandals that had overshadowed the Zuma Presidency. After President Ramaphosa’s speech, we all felt much more hopeful and positive about the future of our country. At that time, I implored the President to be a man of principle who would not ‘buy face’.
Sadly, the Phala Phala scandal has dragged on for some six years now, and has left the public shocked and deeply disappointed.
The Report of the Section 89 Independent Panel chaired by retired Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo, clearly concludes that the President has a case to answer, and the President has reportedly applied for a review of this report, which will unfortunately drag this matter for delay the conclusion of this matter.
In the meantime I want to urge the President once again to answer a few simple questions that will assist to bring the Phala Phala to its anticipated conclusion:
Firstly, who brought and hid the money on the farm, and secondly, if the money was from the proceeds of the sale of buffalo as we’ve been told, why was it necessary to hide it in the sofa where it was later discovered?
Answers to these questions will go a long way to help ease the outrage so many people feel. The scandal raises serious questions about integrity, justice, and financial transparency.
How can citizens trust government when our head of state looks like he is hiding something and evading accountability and justice?
With the local government election looming, we do not want the Phala Phala scandal to dominate the public discourse. Rather politicians and political parties should be focussed on finding solutions for the many issues facing our communities and dysfunctional municipalities where we need stronger accountability and better service delivery.
May I advise you, honourable President, to learn from the wisdom of King Solomon who once said that “A good name is to be desired above riches. To be esteemed is better than silver or gold” (Proverbs 22:1),
Citizens deserve a Presidency that leads with integrity and exemplary conduct, not by controversy. Honourable President, acknowledge your mistakes and then let justice take its course. Without that, we will not be able to support this budget.
I thank you.
