South African president Cyril Ramaphosa-led African peace mission to Ukraine and Russia has begun with a controversial incident. South African media is reporting a standoff between Polish authorities and the presidential security staff at the Warsaw airport. The head of presidential protection service claimed that polish authorities were demanding original permits from the security detail and the media contingent.

Ramaphosa security chief alleges racism by polish officials amid Snafu at Warsaw airport | WION

According to President Cyril Ramaphosa, the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party decided that South Africa should leave the International Criminal Court when it issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin last month.

South African president Ramaphosa says governing party wants International Criminal Court exit

<p>An arrest warrant was issued against Russian President Vladimir Putin by the International Criminal Court (ICC) last week for the alleged war crime of unlawfully deporting children from areas of Ukraine under Russian control to the other parts of Russian Federation.</p>

<p>While Moscow has denounced the ICC arrest warrant issued against Putin, countries supporting Ukraine&nbsp;have supported it. Amid the evolving geopolitical landscape surrounding the war in Ukraine, spotlight is on South Africa if it will follow International Criminal Court's mandate or not.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin ICC arrest warrant: South Africa and International Criminal Court's mandate</strong></h2>

<p>South Africa is one of 123 signatories to the Rome Statute that established the International Criminal Court. This means that these 123 countries hold the mandate to arrest the Russian leader if he sets foot in any of these member countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later this year in August, South Africa is due to host BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) summit in Durban. It remains unclear if the Vladimir Putin will turn up for the summit in-person. In case he does, President Cyril Ramaphosa's government will be facing a tough geopolitical dilemma.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the leader of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters political party, Julius Malena, has already said that Putin would be "welcome" in South Africa.</p>

<p>President Cyril Ramaphosa has remained silent so far.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin's ICC arrest warrant: Is there a precedent?</strong></h2>

<p>In 2015, Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir turned up in South Africa for a meeting of the African Union. He, like Putin now, was under an ICC arrest warrant. However, the South African government issued immunity to all delegates who were attending.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was challenged in court, then appealed and by the time the courts had finished arguing, al-Bashir had caught his plane home.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>ICC's Putin warrant: Questions raised on 'double standards'</strong></h2>

<p>Among the most vocal critics of the ICC's arrest warrant has been China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Beijing appealed to the International Criminal Court (ICC) earlier this week to avoid what it termed as "double standards" and respect the immunity of heads of state.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-calls-icc-to-avoid-double-standards-after-putins-arrest-warrant-573942">China calls ICC to avoid 'double standards' after Putin's arrest warrant</a></strong></p>

<p>At the same time, not only is Russia not a signatory to the Rome Statute that established the International Criminal Court in 1998, neither is Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH -&nbsp;ICC judges issue arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin over alleged war crimes</strong></p>

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<p>It remains unclear, that despite not being a signatory to the relevant convention, how the ICC has been given the authority by Kyiv to act against the alleged war crimes on the Ukrainian land under Russian control after Moscow began its offensive last year.&nbsp;</p>

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An arrest warrant was issued against Russian President Vladimir Putin by the International Criminal Court (ICC) last week for the alleged war crime of unlawfully deporting children from areas of Ukraine under Russian control to the other parts of Russian Federation.

An arrest warrant was issued against Russian President Vladimir Putin by the International Criminal Court (ICC) last week for the alleged war crime of unlawfully deporting children from areas of Ukraine under Russian control to the other parts of Russian Federation. While Moscow has denounced the ICC arrest warrant issued against Putin, countries supporting Ukraine have supported it. Amid the evolving geopolitical landscape surrounding the war in Ukraine, spotlight is on South Africa if it will follow International Criminal Court's mandate or not. Putin ICC arrest warrant: South Africa and International Criminal Court's mandate South Africa is one of 123 signatories to the Rome Statute that established the International Criminal Court. This means that these 123 countries hold the mandate to arrest the Russian leader if he sets foot in any of these member countries. Later this year in August, South Africa is due to host BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) summit in Durban. It remains unclear if the Vladimir Putin will turn up for the summit in-person. In case he does, President Cyril Ramaphosa's government will be facing a tough geopolitical dilemma. Meanwhile, the leader of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters political party, Julius Malena, has already said that Putin would be "welcome" in South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa has remained silent so far. Putin's ICC arrest warrant: Is there a precedent? In 2015, Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir turned up in South Africa for a meeting of the African Union. He, like Putin now, was under an ICC arrest warrant. However, the South African government issued immunity to all delegates who were attending. This was challenged in court, then appealed and by the time the courts had finished arguing, al-Bashir had caught his plane home. ICC's Putin warrant: Questions raised on 'double standards' Among the most vocal critics of the ICC's arrest warrant has been China. Beijing appealed to the International Criminal Court (ICC) earlier this week to avoid what it termed as "double standards" and respect the immunity of heads of state. ALSO READ - China calls ICC to avoid 'double standards' after Putin's arrest warrant At the same time, not only is Russia not a signatory to the Rome Statute that established the International Criminal Court in 1998, neither is Ukraine. ALSO WATCH - ICC judges issue arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin over alleged war crimes × It remains unclear, that despite not being a signatory to the relevant convention, how the ICC has been given the authority by Kyiv to act against the alleged war crimes on the Ukrainian land under Russian control after Moscow began its offensive last year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin's ICC arrest warrant: Will South Africa arrest Russian leader?

Five countries in Africa are going through nationwide protests and there seems to be a common thread between all the unrest. Could Africa witness another Arab Spring? or will the rising unrest die down as governments come up with a solution? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Mass protests across South Africa

Thousands marched through the streets of South Africa's cities on Monday to demand President Cyril Ramaphosa's resignation over his handling of the country's economy and crippling energy crisis.

Protesters demand South African President Ramaphosa to step down | WION Dispatch

A powerful South African corruption watchdog cleared president Cyril Ramaphosa of any wrongdoing in connection with the theft of half a million dollars stashed in a sofa at his Phala Phla farm in February 2020.

South African president Cyril Ramaphosa gets respite in corruption, cover-up case

<p>South Africa President Cyril Ramphosa on Monday (February 27), that the country would seize "an opportunity" to tackle dirty money. The statement from the president came after South Africa was placed on 'grey list' by Financial Action Task Force (FATF), global money laundering and terror funding watchdog.</p>

<p>The FATF sets standards for more than 200 countries and jurisdictions on cross-border financial crime -- a system intended to encourage national authorities improve their performance.</p>

<p>"The grey listing is an opportunity for us to tighten our controls and improve our response to organised crime", Ramaphosa said in his weekly newsletter.</p>

<p>"The situation is concerning but less dire than some people suggest," he added.</p>

<p>"The fundamentals are in place and we know what we need to do to get off the grey list," Ramaphosa said, stressing he was "determined to do this as quickly as possible".</p>

<p>South Africa's state sector was devastated by corruption under former president Jacob Zuma, which Ramaphosa vowed to clean up when he took office five years ago.</p>

<p>The radical leftist opposition party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), reacted strongly to the grey listing, lashing Ramaphosa as "a criminal who is leading a criminal state".</p>

<p>Ramaphosa is "part of the reasons why South Africa has been grey listed," it said on Friday.</p>

<p>South Africa and Nigeria were the only new entries to the "grey list," whose 23 members include the Cayman Islands, Democratic Repupublic of Congo, the Philippines, Syria and Yemen.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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South Africa President Cyril Ramphosa on Monday (February 27), that the country would seize "an opportunity" to tackle dirty money. The statement from the president came after South Africa was placed on 'grey list' by Financial Action Task Force (FATF), global money laundering and terror funding watchdog.

South Africa President Cyril Ramphosa on Monday (February 27), that the country would seize "an opportunity" to tackle dirty money. The statement from the president came after South Africa was placed on 'grey list' by Financial Action Task Force (FATF), global money laundering and terror funding watchdog. The FATF sets standards for more than 200 countries and jurisdictions on cross-border financial crime -- a system intended to encourage national authorities improve their performance. "The grey listing is an opportunity for us to tighten our controls and improve our response to organised crime", Ramaphosa said in his weekly newsletter. "The situation is concerning but less dire than some people suggest," he added. "The fundamentals are in place and we know what we need to do to get off the grey list," Ramaphosa said, stressing he was "determined to do this as quickly as possible". South Africa's state sector was devastated by corruption under former president Jacob Zuma, which Ramaphosa vowed to clean up when he took office five years ago. The radical leftist opposition party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), reacted strongly to the grey listing, lashing Ramaphosa as "a criminal who is leading a criminal state". Ramaphosa is "part of the reasons why South Africa has been grey listed," it said on Friday. South Africa and Nigeria were the only new entries to the "grey list," whose 23 members include the Cayman Islands, Democratic Repupublic of Congo, the Philippines, Syria and Yemen. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

South Africa president vows to tackle dirty money after FATF 'grey' listing

Following non-stop rain for over a week, the South African government has now declared a state of emergency over severe flooding in various parts of the country. On Tuesday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa enabled an intensive response as disastrous floods resulted in the death of at least seven people. Mohammed Saleh brings you this report.

Severe flooding results in seven deaths in South Africa

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a National State of Disaster to tackle his country's electricity crisis, which has left 60 million South Africans without electricity for hours everyday and disrupting businesses of all sizes.

South Africa: President Ramaphosa gives annual state-of-the-nation address, invokes Disaster Law

<p>South Africa on Thursday (February 9) declared a national "state of disaster" over the crippling power shortages in the country. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said that the massive power outages posed an existential threat to the economy and social fabric.&nbsp;The electricity crunch has been years in the making, a product of delays in building new coal-fired power stations, corruption in coal-supply contracts, criminal sabotage and failures to ease up regulation to enable private providers to swiftly bring renewable energy on tap.</p>

<p>"The crisis has progressively evolved to affect every part of society. We must act to lessen the impact of the crisis on farmers, on small businesses, on our water infrastructure and our transport network," Ramaphosa said in his annual State of the Nation Address to parliament.</p>

<p>Eskom, the state electricity utility has been forced to implement the worst rolling blackouts on record. Manufacturing industry has been disrupted and businesses of all sizes are affected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The power cuts are expected to reduce economic growth in Africa's most industrialised nation to just 0.3% this year.</p>

<p>Declaring a national state of disaster gives the government additional powers to respond to a crisis, including by permitting emergency procurement procedures with fewer bureaucratic delays and less oversight.</p>

<p>The legislation was used to enable health authorities to respond more swiftly to the COVID-19 pandemic, but some analysts doubt it will help the government expand power supply much quicker.</p>

<p>Eskom said it would study the details of the declaration before commenting.</p>

<p>The biggest opposition party, the Democratic Alliance, said it would challenge the "state of disaster" declaration in court, alleging Ramaphosa's party issued nonsensical regulations and abused procurement processes during the pandemic.</p>

<p>Ramaphosa also said on Thursday that the government was working on a mechanism for targeted basic income support for the most vulnerable, within fiscal constraints.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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South Africa on Thursday (February 9) declared a national "state of disaster" over the crippling power shortages in the country. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said that the massive power outages posed an existential threat to the economy and social fabric.

South Africa on Thursday (February 9) declared a national "state of disaster" over the crippling power shortages in the country. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said that the massive power outages posed an existential threat to the economy and social fabric. The electricity crunch has been years in the making, a product of delays in building new coal-fired power stations, corruption in coal-supply contracts, criminal sabotage and failures to ease up regulation to enable private providers to swiftly bring renewable energy on tap. "The crisis has progressively evolved to affect every part of society. We must act to lessen the impact of the crisis on farmers, on small businesses, on our water infrastructure and our transport network," Ramaphosa said in his annual State of the Nation Address to parliament. Eskom, the state electricity utility has been forced to implement the worst rolling blackouts on record. Manufacturing industry has been disrupted and businesses of all sizes are affected. The power cuts are expected to reduce economic growth in Africa's most industrialised nation to just 0.3% this year. Declaring a national state of disaster gives the government additional powers to respond to a crisis, including by permitting emergency procurement procedures with fewer bureaucratic delays and less oversight. The legislation was used to enable health authorities to respond more swiftly to the COVID-19 pandemic, but some analysts doubt it will help the government expand power supply much quicker. Eskom said it would study the details of the declaration before commenting. The biggest opposition party, the Democratic Alliance, said it would challenge the "state of disaster" declaration in court, alleging Ramaphosa's party issued nonsensical regulations and abused procurement processes during the pandemic. Ramaphosa also said on Thursday that the government was working on a mechanism for targeted basic income support for the most vulnerable, within fiscal constraints. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South Africa declares national 'state of disaster' to tackle power crisis

<p>South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday addressed the nation amid a dire electricity crisis and a bleak economic outlook in his annual State of the Nation Address.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The president is under great pressure. He will soon open a new session of Parliament in Cape Town, the country's most developed city which is also facing long power cuts and high unemployment levels, ABC&nbsp;News reported.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;South African President Ramaphosa opposes Tourism Ministry's deal with Tottenham</strong></p>

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<p>The country is not only dealing with the power and employment crisis, but&nbsp;food and fuel prices have also increased.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The recent power cuts have added to the country's economic woes, which include an unemployment rate of over 30 per cent, where almost two million lost their jobs during Covid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gwede Mantashe, Energy Minister earlier this week said that the economy is approximately losing almost $56 million daily due to ongoing power blackouts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyril-ramaphosa-re-elected-as-leader-of-ruling-anc-party-in-south-africa-544513"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Cyril Ramaphosa re-elected as leader of ruling ANC party in South Africa</strong></a></p>

<p>The power utility Eskom is currently unable to produce adequate power due to frequent breakdowns at its ageing coal-fired power stations and years of corruption</p>

<p>The opposition has threatened to disrupt Ramaphosa's upcoming address.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Steenhuisen earlier this week, delivering his party’s alternative state of the nation said, "nothing that President Ramaphosa says on Thursday will change this reality. In fact, Ramaphosa is the one who has taken us down this path of failure over the last five wasted years, during which time this country has rapidly gone backwards on every conceivable metric."</p>

<p>(with inputs from agencies)</p>

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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday addressed the nation amid a dire electricity crisis and a bleak economic outlook in his annual State of the Nation Address.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday addressed the nation amid a dire electricity crisis and a bleak economic outlook in his annual State of the Nation Address. The president is under great pressure. He will soon open a new session of Parliament in Cape Town, the country's most developed city which is also facing long power cuts and high unemployment levels, ABC News reported. Watch | South African President Ramaphosa opposes Tourism Ministry's deal with Tottenham The country is not only dealing with the power and employment crisis, but food and fuel prices have also increased. The recent power cuts have added to the country's economic woes, which include an unemployment rate of over 30 per cent, where almost two million lost their jobs during Covid. Gwede Mantashe, Energy Minister earlier this week said that the economy is approximately losing almost $56 million daily due to ongoing power blackouts. Also read | Cyril Ramaphosa re-elected as leader of ruling ANC party in South Africa The power utility Eskom is currently unable to produce adequate power due to frequent breakdowns at its ageing coal-fired power stations and years of corruption The opposition has threatened to disrupt Ramaphosa's upcoming address. Steenhuisen earlier this week, delivering his party’s alternative state of the nation said, "nothing that President Ramaphosa says on Thursday will change this reality. In fact, Ramaphosa is the one who has taken us down this path of failure over the last five wasted years, during which time this country has rapidly gone backwards on every conceivable metric." (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to address nation amid power cuts

South Africa's President Ramaphosa announces National State of Disaster to tackle energy crisis

After huge public backlash, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa opposed the Tourism Ministry's sponsorship deal with Premier League site Tottenham. Ramaphosa believes the $58 million deal is excessive.

South African President Ramaphosa opposes Tourism Ministry's deal with Tottenham

<p>South Africa’s Indian-origin freedom fighter and winner of National Orders Frene Noshir Ginwala died at the age of 90. In a statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that Ginwala left for her heavenly abode on Thursday evening.&nbsp;Ginwala had suffered a stroke a&nbsp;fortnight ago. She was a grandchild of one of the few Parsi families who belonged to India. She was sent to the UK for her studies by her parents before they settled in Mozambique, leaving South Africa.</p>

<p>After a ban was imposed on the ANC and the apartheid government arrested the High Command leaders in 1963, many ANC members, including Nelson Mandela, were helped by Ginwala.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/five-million-kids-die-before-fifth-birthday-mostly-in-sub-saharan-africa-and-south-asia-un-551574">Five million kids die before fifth birthday, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia: UN</a></p>

<p>Ginwala also helped in establishing ANC in exile in Tanzania. She became the first parliamentary speaker of South Africa after Mandela became president of the first democratically-elected government in 1994.</p>

<p>“On behalf of the nation and of the legislative, executive and judicial components of the State, (I offer my) sincere condolences to Dr Ginwala’s family, her nephews Cyrus, Sohrab and Zavareh, and their families,” said Ramaphosa.</p>

<p>Ginwala, born on April 25, 1932, participated in the anti-apartheid struggle and fought for democratic dispensation of South Africa as an academic, lawyer, activist, journalist and political leader.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | WION Dispatch: South African police investigates an alleged plot to poison Eskom's CEO with Cyanide</strong></p>

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<p>“Frene Ginwala epitomised the ethos and expectations of our then fledgling Constitution and played an important role in building the capacity of Parliament through the transformation of activists and leaders into lawmakers who were, in turn, able to transform our country,” said Ramaphosa said.</p>

<p>“Beyond African shores, she positioned our young democracy both as one that had as much to contribute to as it had to learn from global precedents and experience,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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South Africa’s Indian-origin freedom fighter and winner of National Orders Frene Noshir Ginwala died at the age of 90. In a statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that Ginwala left for her heavenly abode on Thursday evening.

South Africa’s Indian-origin freedom fighter and winner of National Orders Frene Noshir Ginwala died at the age of 90. In a statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that Ginwala left for her heavenly abode on Thursday evening. Ginwala had suffered a stroke a fortnight ago. She was a grandchild of one of the few Parsi families who belonged to India. She was sent to the UK for her studies by her parents before they settled in Mozambique, leaving South Africa. After a ban was imposed on the ANC and the apartheid government arrested the High Command leaders in 1963, many ANC members, including Nelson Mandela, were helped by Ginwala. ALSO READ| Five million kids die before fifth birthday, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia: UN Ginwala also helped in establishing ANC in exile in Tanzania. She became the first parliamentary speaker of South Africa after Mandela became president of the first democratically-elected government in 1994. “On behalf of the nation and of the legislative, executive and judicial components of the State, (I offer my) sincere condolences to Dr Ginwala’s family, her nephews Cyrus, Sohrab and Zavareh, and their families,” said Ramaphosa. Ginwala, born on April 25, 1932, participated in the anti-apartheid struggle and fought for democratic dispensation of South Africa as an academic, lawyer, activist, journalist and political leader. WATCH | WION Dispatch: South African police investigates an alleged plot to poison Eskom's CEO with Cyanide “Frene Ginwala epitomised the ethos and expectations of our then fledgling Constitution and played an important role in building the capacity of Parliament through the transformation of activists and leaders into lawmakers who were, in turn, able to transform our country,” said Ramaphosa said. “Beyond African shores, she positioned our young democracy both as one that had as much to contribute to as it had to learn from global precedents and experience,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian-origin South African freedom fighter Frene Ginwala dies at 90

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa is embroiled in a 'farmgate' scandal. He faces charges of money laundering & accusations of covering up a theft at his farmhouse. Priyanka Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Did Ramaphosa sell buffaloes worth $4 Million

In this video, watch the scandal that overshadowed South African president Ramaphosa's reelection as chief of ruling ANC and how he turned the tables.

WION Dispatch: No easy road ahead for Ramaphosa?

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{201fe335-49dc-4c6b-b997-eab246736be6}{205}" paraid="1049210360" >South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was re-elected as the leader of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party on Monday. The veteran politician, who has been facing a number of corruption scandals recently, defeated his rival – former Health Minister Zweli Mkhize – by 2476 votes to 1897.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3ee77dc8-bb81-41b7-9143-c54bf270a94f}{193}" paraid="1506293283" >Ramaphosa was the odds-on favourite to win the party elections with the ANC putting their complete support behind him when it comes to the corruption scandals. However, a lot of experts were surprised by the number of votes that Mkhize got as he was also hit by a major scandal regarding the Covid funds.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3ee77dc8-bb81-41b7-9143-c54bf270a94f}{193}" paraid="1506293283" >Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-shoots-down-nine-drones-in-capitals-airspace-early-monday-military-administration-says-544357">Drones hit 'critical infrastructure' in Kyiv, cause 'fairly serious' damage</a></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{201fe335-49dc-4c6b-b997-eab246736be6}{216}" paraid="1287596809" >While both factions inside the ANC made it clear that there were no instances of vote-buying, it was alleged that Mkhize promised high positions to key members in order to boost his cause.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{201fe335-49dc-4c6b-b997-eab246736be6}{226}" paraid="902979664" >The ANC, a party that counted Nelson Mandela as its member, has been in power in South Africa since 1994 and they will be looking to win a sixth term in the 2024 general elections. While corruption has become a major issue for the country, scandals have not impacted the influence of the party.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{201fe335-49dc-4c6b-b997-eab246736be6}{226}" paraid="902979664" ><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Taiwan launches probe into TikTok for spreading disinformation</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-launches-probe-into-tiktok-for-spreading-disinformation-544432/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{201fe335-49dc-4c6b-b997-eab246736be6}{226}" paraid="902979664" >Ramaphosa ran on an anti-corruption platform against his predecessor Jacob Zuma but the recent scandals have marred his name. While the parliamentary vote asking for his impeachment was completely quashed by the legislators, the public perception has certainly soured over time.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{201fe335-49dc-4c6b-b997-eab246736be6}{236}" paraid="1110035416" >Ramaphosa was accused of tax evasion and money laundering with the central authorities also accusing him of stashing over $580,000 in a sofa at his private farm, according to Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was re-elected as the leader of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party on Monday. The veteran politician, who has been facing a number of corruption scandals recently, defeated his rival – former Health Minister Zweli Mkhize – by 2476 votes to 1897.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was re-elected as the leader of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party on Monday. The veteran politician, who has been facing a number of corruption scandals recently, defeated his rival – former Health Minister Zweli Mkhize – by 2476 votes to 1897. Ramaphosa was the odds-on favourite to win the party elections with the ANC putting their complete support behind him when it comes to the corruption scandals. However, a lot of experts were surprised by the number of votes that Mkhize got as he was also hit by a major scandal regarding the Covid funds. Also read | Drones hit 'critical infrastructure' in Kyiv, cause 'fairly serious' damage While both factions inside the ANC made it clear that there were no instances of vote-buying, it was alleged that Mkhize promised high positions to key members in order to boost his cause. The ANC, a party that counted Nelson Mandela as its member, has been in power in South Africa since 1994 and they will be looking to win a sixth term in the 2024 general elections. While corruption has become a major issue for the country, scandals have not impacted the influence of the party. WATCH | Taiwan launches probe into TikTok for spreading disinformation Ramaphosa ran on an anti-corruption platform against his predecessor Jacob Zuma but the recent scandals have marred his name. While the parliamentary vote asking for his impeachment was completely quashed by the legislators, the public perception has certainly soured over time. Ramaphosa was accused of tax evasion and money laundering with the central authorities also accusing him of stashing over $580,000 in a sofa at his private farm, according to Reuters.

Cyril Ramaphosa re-elected as leader of ruling ANC party in South Africa

The ruling African National Congress in South Africa has nominated. Only two candidates to run for the party's President. The contest now just between Cyril Ramaphosa and Zweli Mkhize. The South African President is facing the Health Minister who he suspended last year over corruption allegations in a party vote.

ANC's five-day conference in Johannesburg; Ramaphosa seeks re-election as ANC boss

South Africa's ruling party, the African National Congress is heading into its 55th elective conference and all eyes are of course on the South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

WION Dispatch | South Africa: ANC holds elective conference

Amid South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's bid to be re-elected as the Chief of the African National Congress, the leader's don't seem to end. Just days after Ramaphosa survived the impeachment scare the ANC leader received jolt from former President Zuma.

Zuma suing Ramaphosa over leaked medical reports, says 'Ramaphosa neglected his duties as President'

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b0c7cd0c-4e0d-4130-bd74-ab3368c617b6}{91}" paraid="895836026" >South African President Cyril Ramaphosa looks all set to retain his position as the leader of the country’s ruling party African National Congress (ANC) despite major corruption charges. The veteran politician has been in the headlines for his involvement in a tax evasion plot but a motion for impeachment against him was completely dismissed after a parliamentary vote. The support is expected to continue from his party as the leadership vote will take place in Johannesburg on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b0c7cd0c-4e0d-4130-bd74-ab3368c617b6}{100}" paraid="1751821488" >Ramaphosa came to power on the back of a strong anti-corruption message as he spoke openly against his predecessor Jacob Zuma and his alleged abuse of power. While the national sentiment did turn against him recently, the ANC has stood by him and has supported him through the period.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b0c7cd0c-4e0d-4130-bd74-ab3368c617b6}{100}" paraid="1751821488" >Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-phone-conversation-with-putin-reviews-energy-trade-and-defence-ties-543698">PM Modi holds phone conversation with Putin, reviews energy, defence ties</a></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b0c7cd0c-4e0d-4130-bd74-ab3368c617b6}{108}" paraid="853992148" >Ramaphosa will be fighting the leadership vote against former health minister Zweli Mkhize – a politician who is also facing corruption charges over the misuse of COVID-19 funds. While he has been a supporter of Ramaphosa, he has recently created his own faction in a bid to win the top spot in the party.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b86e27e5-d18b-425e-8e7f-558958a7609a}{56}" paraid="37388415" >A win for Ramaphosa in the leadership race will also make sure that if ANC wins the general elections in 2024, the 70-year-old Ramaphosa is guaranteed another turn as President of South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c30c6b12-f8d6-4bcb-ba78-d95717a9c738}{157}" paraid="899314031" >While the party continued to support Ramaphosa, there have been a number of protests outside his house regarding the corruption charges. However, Ramaphosa told a party fundraising dinner that the leadership vote will "determine where South Africa goes not only (for) the next five years but in the next decade and beyond that".&nbsp;</p>

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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa looks all set to retain his position as the leader of the country’s ruling party African National Congress (ANC) despite major corruption charges.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa looks all set to retain his position as the leader of the country’s ruling party African National Congress (ANC) despite major corruption charges. The veteran politician has been in the headlines for his involvement in a tax evasion plot but a motion for impeachment against him was completely dismissed after a parliamentary vote. The support is expected to continue from his party as the leadership vote will take place in Johannesburg on Saturday. Ramaphosa came to power on the back of a strong anti-corruption message as he spoke openly against his predecessor Jacob Zuma and his alleged abuse of power. While the national sentiment did turn against him recently, the ANC has stood by him and has supported him through the period. Also read | PM Modi holds phone conversation with Putin, reviews energy, defence ties Ramaphosa will be fighting the leadership vote against former health minister Zweli Mkhize – a politician who is also facing corruption charges over the misuse of COVID-19 funds. While he has been a supporter of Ramaphosa, he has recently created his own faction in a bid to win the top spot in the party. A win for Ramaphosa in the leadership race will also make sure that if ANC wins the general elections in 2024, the 70-year-old Ramaphosa is guaranteed another turn as President of South Africa. While the party continued to support Ramaphosa, there have been a number of protests outside his house regarding the corruption charges. However, Ramaphosa told a party fundraising dinner that the leadership vote will "determine where South Africa goes not only (for) the next five years but in the next decade and beyond that".

Cyril Ramaphosa expected to win re-election as ANC leader in South Africa

The African National Congress will head to its 55th elective conference and all eyes will be on South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who look set to be re-elected as the party leader. The conference will be held in Johannesburg between December 16-20.

South Africa: All eyes on Cyril Ramaphosa as ANC will hold its 55th elective conference

South Africa's scandal-engulfed President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday easily survived a vote in parliament on whether to initiate impeachment proceedings that could have forced him out of office.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa dodges impeachement vote in parliament

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{49eb1362-68a1-410a-9305-76bcfc592786}{38}" paraid="798703233" >The South African parliament voted against starting an impeachment process against incumbent President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday. The speaker of parliament said that the members rejected a report submitted by a panel of experts that presented evidence regarding misconduct committed by Ramaphosa over foreign currency hidden at his private farm. The controversy, dubbed “Farmgate” by the South African media, resulted in the opposition demanding his resignation. However, Ramaphosa denied any wrongdoings regarding the scandal and said that it was a politically motivated accusation.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{49eb1362-68a1-410a-9305-76bcfc592786}{38}" paraid="798703233" >Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/milestone-for-clean-energy-us-announces-major-nuclear-fusion-breakthrough-542788">'Milestone for clean energy': US announces major nuclear fusion breakthrough</a></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c9076d7f-edb8-439b-ac46-88f4e7200165}{197}" paraid="805644778" >AFP reported that the vote went overwhelmingly in support of Ramaphosa with the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party defeating the motion by 214 to 148 votes. Two people abstained from voting as it was officially recognised by National Assembly speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e193f71e-33c0-4c2b-b369-2bd8550b4514}{33}" paraid="668248530" >The 70-year-old Ramaphosa came into power at the back of a strong anti-corruption campaign against his predecessor Jacob Zuma. However, the scandal has affected his reputation in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fb28de38-0aed-4dd1-b53c-6f14ac8a472b}{225}" paraid="500049697" >Justice Minister Ronald Lamola dismissed the report and said that that "there is not sufficient evidence to impeach the president". "The panel report has set the bar too low to impeach a sitting&nbsp;president."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fb28de38-0aed-4dd1-b53c-6f14ac8a472b}{225}" paraid="500049697" >Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-lac-intrusion-attempt-set-to-rock-indian-parliament-542512">Tawang skirmish: Chinese army alleges Indian troops 'illegally' crossed border</a></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{68d18fd2-54a0-49d0-8014-52e202d61644}{240}" paraid="1617669283" >On the other hand, opposition leaders continued to produce a united front against the decision as both Economic Freedom Fighters party leader Julius Malema and African Transformation Movement Vuyolwethu Zungula supported the motion and said that the decision was not correct.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fef1035f-83a4-4cc3-bf81-2169d006fa10}{43}" paraid="1416000655" >Both leaders once again pointed out that the vote could have been a&nbsp;"watershed moment" that could have could&nbsp;"affirm that no one is above the law"</p>

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The South African parliament voted against starting an impeachment process against incumbent President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday. The speaker of parliament said that the members rejected a report submitted by a panel of experts that presented evidence regarding misconduct committed by Ramaphosa over foreign currency hidden at his private farm.

The South African parliament voted against starting an impeachment process against incumbent President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday. The speaker of parliament said that the members rejected a report submitted by a panel of experts that presented evidence regarding misconduct committed by Ramaphosa over foreign currency hidden at his private farm. The controversy, dubbed “Farmgate” by the South African media, resulted in the opposition demanding his resignation. However, Ramaphosa denied any wrongdoings regarding the scandal and said that it was a politically motivated accusation. Also read | 'Milestone for clean energy': US announces major nuclear fusion breakthrough AFP reported that the vote went overwhelmingly in support of Ramaphosa with the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party defeating the motion by 214 to 148 votes. Two people abstained from voting as it was officially recognised by National Assembly speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula. The 70-year-old Ramaphosa came into power at the back of a strong anti-corruption campaign against his predecessor Jacob Zuma. However, the scandal has affected his reputation in the country. Justice Minister Ronald Lamola dismissed the report and said that that "there is not sufficient evidence to impeach the president". "The panel report has set the bar too low to impeach a sitting president." Also read | Tawang skirmish: Chinese army alleges Indian troops 'illegally' crossed border On the other hand, opposition leaders continued to produce a united front against the decision as both Economic Freedom Fighters party leader Julius Malema and African Transformation Movement Vuyolwethu Zungula supported the motion and said that the decision was not correct. Both leaders once again pointed out that the vote could have been a "watershed moment" that could have could "affirm that no one is above the law"

Cyril Ramaphosa survives impeachment vote over corruption scandal in South Africa

South Africa's parliament is set to debate Tuesday whether to initiate proceedings to remove scandal-engulfed President Cyril Ramaphosa from office. President Ramaphosa will be fighting for political survival this week, both in Parliament and from within his own party.

WION Dispatch: South Africa parliament to vote on impeachment of Ramaphosa

South African Parliament to decide whether to proceed with Ramaphosa's impeachment

South Africa's parliament is set to debate Tuesday whether to initiate proceedings to remove scandal-engulfed President Cyril Ramaphosa from office.

Vote on Cyril Ramaphosa's impeachment proceedings

South Africa: Vote on Cyril Ramaphosa's impeachment proceedings

South Africa plans to decriminalise sex work, something that the sex workers South Africa have been campaigning for a pretty long time. Cyril Ramaphosa government is all set to bring a law in this regard. The country hopes to tackle the levels of crime against women in a country with one of the world's highest HIV cases.

South Africa to decriminalise sex work; Sex workers welcome the move

<p>The ruling African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa on Monday (December 5) rallied behind the embattled President Cyril Ramaphosa on the eve of a parliamentary vote which may lead to the president's impeachment.</p>

<p>Top ANC leaders, after meeting to decide the fate of Ramaphosa, decided to stand by him. The party has decided to oppose ant motion that will seek to remove him.</p>

<p>"Should parliament proceed tomorrow, the ANC will not support that vote," ANC interim secretary-general Paul Mashatile told reporters after day-long talks.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Farmgate Scandal: South African Prez Ramaphosa denies allegations against him</strong></p>

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<p>Monday was an eventful day for Ramaphosa who mounted an 11th-hour legal challenge to have a damning report on an alleged cover-up of a cash robbery at his farm annulled.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, the country's parliament is due to debate a report submitted by an independent panel last week. The report has found that Ramaphosa "may have committed" serious violations and misconduct.</p>

<p>The parliament sitting is a step that could lead to a vote on forcing Ramaphosa from office.</p>

<p>Two-thirds of the assembly will have to vote in favour of a removal motion for Ramaphosa to be forced out. The ANC has 230 out of 400 seats.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/s-africa-ramaphosa-urges-supreme-court-to-put-impeachment-report-on-hold-540367">S. Africa: Ramaphosa urges supreme court to put impeachment report on hold</a></strong></p>

<p>In papers filed to the Constitutional Court and made available to the media by his spokesman, the president petitioned to have the report "reviewed, declared unlawful and set aside".</p>

<p>The move helped consolidate party support for Ramaphosa, as Mashatile cited it as the reason for the decision by the ANC's highest body -- the National Executive Committee (NEC) -- to back Ramaphosa.</p>

<p>The president has insisted he would not resign after the special panel's report, but his political future remains uncertain. &nbsp;<br />
On Monday he briefly attended an NEC meeting which discussed the crisis.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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The ruling African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa on Monday (December 5) rallied behind the embattled President Cyril Ramaphosa on the eve of a parliamentary vote which may lead to the president's impeachment.

The ruling African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa on Monday (December 5) rallied behind the embattled President Cyril Ramaphosa on the eve of a parliamentary vote which may lead to the president's impeachment. Top ANC leaders, after meeting to decide the fate of Ramaphosa, decided to stand by him. The party has decided to oppose ant motion that will seek to remove him. "Should parliament proceed tomorrow, the ANC will not support that vote," ANC interim secretary-general Paul Mashatile told reporters after day-long talks. Watch | Farmgate Scandal: South African Prez Ramaphosa denies allegations against him × Monday was an eventful day for Ramaphosa who mounted an 11th-hour legal challenge to have a damning report on an alleged cover-up of a cash robbery at his farm annulled. On Tuesday, the country's parliament is due to debate a report submitted by an independent panel last week. The report has found that Ramaphosa "may have committed" serious violations and misconduct. The parliament sitting is a step that could lead to a vote on forcing Ramaphosa from office. Two-thirds of the assembly will have to vote in favour of a removal motion for Ramaphosa to be forced out. The ANC has 230 out of 400 seats. Also Read | S. Africa: Ramaphosa urges supreme court to put impeachment report on hold In papers filed to the Constitutional Court and made available to the media by his spokesman, the president petitioned to have the report "reviewed, declared unlawful and set aside". The move helped consolidate party support for Ramaphosa, as Mashatile cited it as the reason for the decision by the ANC's highest body -- the National Executive Committee (NEC) -- to back Ramaphosa. The president has insisted he would not resign after the special panel's report, but his political future remains uncertain. On Monday he briefly attended an NEC meeting which discussed the crisis. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

South Africa: ANC rallies around embattled President Ramaphosa

The fate of the South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be decided on Sunday. The top leaders of the ruling party, the African National Congress, will meet on Sunday yet again. They will continue the meeting that was halted midway on Friday, the meeting was conducted to decide whether Ramaphosa would stay in his position or not.

Farmgate Scandal: ANC fails to reach conclusion, Ramaphosa's fate to be decided on Sunday

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