MK Party welcomes ethics probe into Ramaphosa

The office of the Public Protector has confirmed that it will conduct a full investigation into President Cyril Ramaphosa for alleged violations of the Executive Ethics Code. The announcement follows a formal notification to the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, which submitted a detailed complaint outlining the alleged breaches.

In correspondence dated 25 November 2025 (Reference: CMS-54088/2025), the Public Protector indicated that after assessing the MK Party’s submission, her office would proceed with an investigation into possible breaches of clauses 2.1(a), 2.1(b), 2.1(c) and 2.3(f) of the Code. These clauses relate to abuse of power, improper conduct, acting inconsistently with executive responsibilities, and failure to act in the best interests of the Republic.

The MK Party said it welcomed the development, calling it a significant step toward securing accountability at the highest levels of government. The party said the investigation was essential to restoring credibility to the office of the President and safeguarding constitutional democracy.

“We remain committed to ensuring that no individual, including the sitting President, is placed above the law. We will cooperate fully with the investigation,” said Nhlamulo Ndhlela, the MK Party’s national spokesperson.

According to the letter seen by SA Daily, the Acting Executive Manager of the Public Protector’s Investigations Branch, Veronika Pillay, acknowledged receipt of the MK Party’s submission on 6 October 2025 and confirmed that the investigation would proceed. The letter states that the allegations relate specifically to abuse of power, improper conduct, and breaches of the relevant clauses of the Executive Ethics Code.

The MK Party noted that the investigation comes amid ongoing concerns regarding the ethical conduct of the President, including the Phala Phala scandal, allegations of misuse of state resources, and perceived erosion of oversight institutions. The party said it would continue to expose conduct that undermines transparent and accountable governance.

The Public Protector’s investigation is expected to follow standard procedures, including review of evidence, interviews, and documentation related to the alleged breaches. The MK Party has indicated that it will cooperate fully and provide any additional information required by the office.

This development marks the first formal step in a process that could have significant implications for the presidency, reinforcing the principle that all public officials are accountable under the law. The investigation will be closely monitored by political parties, civil society organisations, and members of the public.

Nhlamulo Ndhlela reiterated, “This investigation is vital to defending constitutional democracy and upholding ethical governance. Accountability must apply equally to all citizens, including the highest office in the land.”