Thokozile Mnguni
The EFF has confirmed it will oppose President Cyril Ramaphosa’s urgent application at the Western Cape High Court. The case challenges aspects of the parliamentary impeachment inquiry linked to the Section 89 Independent Panel Report on the Phala Phala matter.
Ramaphosa has approached the court under Rule 6(12). He is seeking to have the matter treated as urgent. He also wants normal procedural timelines set aside.
He argues the case is “inherently urgent”. He warns that parts of the impeachment process may proceed before a judicial review is finalised. He says this could cause irreparable harm. He also says it could undermine any future review of the process.
Court papers state that the review court may face consequences flowing from the report already taking effect before its validity is determined.
For the EFF, the application reinforces its long-standing view. The party believes the President is using legal avenues to delay accountability and avoid an impeachment inquiry. It describes the move as an attempt to stall Parliament’s constitutional obligations.
It also says it weakens oversight mechanisms. The party maintains that the impeachment process must proceed without interference.
The EFF said it is committed to defending the Constitutional Court ruling directing Parliament to establish an impeachment committee. It describes the ruling as binding and requiring full implementation.
The party adds that an interdict application does not automatically suspend proceedings unless granted by a court. It says the committee can therefore continue its work.
It has also called on National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza to oppose the application. It argues Parliament must protect its oversight authority over the executive. It warns that granting the relief sought would set a precedent that could weaken parliamentary accountability.
The committee is scheduled to meet on 24 June to finalise its terms of reference and appoint an evidence leader.
The ATM has also formally opposed President Ramaphosa’s urgent application to halt the impeachment process and says it is ready to defend the proceedings.
The party says South Africans have waited long enough for answers on the Phala Phala matter and will not allow legal challenges to delay constitutional accountability.
“Its message is clear: let the impeachment process run its course without further delays or distractions”, it said in a statement.
RISE Mzansi has confirmed receipt of the court papers. Committee chairperson Makashule Gana notes the legal team is reviewing the documents. A response will follow after the assessment. He confirms the meeting remains set for 24 June.