Ramaphosa Refutes Resignation Rumours and Commits to Buffalo Buyer Refund

Picture courtesy: (GCIS) President Cyril Ramaphosa denies resignation rumours and addresses financial commitments regarding baffalo sales.

(The Post News)– President Cyril Ramaphosa has firmly denied any plans to resign from his position ahead of the upcoming elections.

Amidst the swirling rumours, the President has also taken a transparent step by announcing his intention to refund a buffalo buyer.

“Resignation is not on my agenda,” stated Ramaphosa in a recent interview with 702.

I will be voted into power, and I will serve my term with’serve’ being the operative word,” he stated, emphasising his dedication to serving the South African people.

The President’s remarks come as a clear message to both his supporters and detractors that he remains steadfast in his role.

The controversy stems from a transaction dating back to December 2019, where Hazim Mustafa allegedly paid over $580,000 (R10.57 million) for buffaloes from Ramaphosa’s farm.

Ramaphosa has since taken steps to resolve the matter, stating, “An arrangement is being made to refund Mr. Mustafa for the uncollected buffaloes. He has a legitimate claim, and we intend to honour it.”

The issue of the Phala Phala farm, where the transaction took place, has been a point of contention, with various agencies investigating the circumstances surrounding the sale.

Ramaphosa emphasised his non-interference in the process, “We have dealt with the issues at Phala Phala, and I have refrained from any interference, allowing the agencies to reach their own conclusions.”

This statement of intent to refund Mustafa aligns with Ramaphosa’s intended commitment to transparency and accountability during his tenure also to quell the rumours of his resignation, which have been a source of political uncertainty.

“At 72, I am prepared, willing, and able to serve the people,” Ramaphosa added, dispelling any doubts about his determination to lead.

In the backdrop of these developments, the African Transformation Movement (ATM) has sought to unseal the investigation report into the alleged police cover-up of a theft at the Phala Phala farm.

Despite these challenges, Ramaphosa’s administration has been cleared by the Public Protector and the South African Revenue Service, finding no evidence against him.

His response has been to confront the issues with transparency and a commitment to ethical leadership. As the election looms, it is this approach that will likely resonate with voters seeking assurance of integrity and dedication from their elected officials.