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President Cyril Ramaphosa speaking at an event.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he respects the judgment handed down by the Constitutional Court of South Africa, reaffirming his commitment to the Constitution, judicial independence and the rule of law.
The President was reacting after the Apex court ruled that Parliament’s decision to halt the Section 89 impeachment process linked to the Phala Phala matter was unconstitutional and invalid.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya says President Ramaphosa has consistently cooperated with the various investigations into the Phala Phala matter.
“The Presidency has noted the judgment of the Constitutional Court in the case brought by the Economic Freedom Fighters challenging the National Assembly’s decision with respect to Section 89 proceedings against the President. President Ramaphosa respects the Constitutional Court’s judgment and reaffirms his commitment to the Constitution, the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law. President Ramaphosa has been consistent in providing his full assistance to the various enquiries into this matter. President Ramaphosa maintains that no person is above the law and that any allegations should be subjected to due process without fear, favour or prejudice.”
VIDEO | Constitutional Court judgement on Phala Phala matter:
Parliament has also weighed in on the matter. It says it has noted and respects the Constitutional Court’s judgment describing it as a significant ruling that will require careful legal and procedural consideration.
The institution says it will take time to thoroughly study the judgment, particularly its implications for the rules and processes of the National Assembly before determining the appropriate next steps.
Parliament spokesperson Moloto Mothapo says the ruling has just been handed down and will now be subjected to detailed internal assessment to guide how Parliament proceeds in line with the court’s directives.
“As Parliament, we note and respect the judgment of the Constitutional Court. It is important that we take some time to carefully study the judgment, particularly insofar as its implication on the procedures of the National Assembly is concerned. So, that is exactly what we’ll be doing because it just came out now and we will have an opportunity to go through it and also make a determination, as I’m saying.”
