During a recent parliamentary session in the Republic of South Africa, the newly appointed Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, was subjected to questioning by some members of parliament to determine whether he was still independent or had been swayed by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The focus of the questioning was the Phala-Phala matter, which had produced two different outcomes: the Independent Panel report implicating President Ramaphosa and the plenary report by acting Public Protector advocate Kholeka Gcaleka exonerating him.
In response, Deputy President Mashatile stated that state institutions conducting investigations into the burglary and theft at President Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala farm should be allowed to complete their probe. This statement suggests that the Deputy President is calling for a fair and thorough investigation to be conducted, and that he is not willing to be swayed by any outside influence or pressure. It also indicates his commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served.
