President Cyril Ramaphosa has responded to acting Public Protector Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka’s probe into what transpired on his Phala Phala farm.
After receiving a complaint, attorney Busisiwe Mkhwebane, who is now on leave, started an investigation into the matter. Ramaphosa forced Mkhwebane’s deputy, Gcaleka, to take over the reins (Mkhwebane).
Former spy chief Arthur Fraser initially filed criminal allegations against Ramaphosa in June, alleging that he covered up the theft of R62 million from his farm in Phala Phala, Limpopo. Additionally, he claims that the suspects were taken hostage, questioned, and then offered money in exchange for their silence.
Ramaphosa has acknowledged a robbery that occurred on his property, but he denies criminal responsibility and claims the money taken came from the sale of animals on his farm.
What exactly President Cyril Ramaphosa responded with for himself is currently unclear. However, the public protector had sent 31 questions for him to respond to on the heist on his farm in Limpopo.
Ramaphosa petitioned Gcaleka for a second extension after missing the deadline to deliver a response by July 18, 2022, but that request was turned down the same day.
The public protector’s office has confirmed that Ramaphosa’s response has been received.
The office’s spokesperson Oupa Segalwe said: “We confirm receipt of the President’s reponse in respect of the item under reply. We won’t be doing interviews or saying any more that confirming that he has responded.”
Ramaphosa might be called and compelled to appear before Mkhwebane’s fitness investigation at which point he will be required to explain his version of the robbery. This might happen shortly. It’s unclear if Mkhwebane has responded despite being given until Friday, July 22, 2022, by his attorneys. She claims that because Ramaphosa is involved in some of her investigations, he cannot suspend her because he is conflicted.