The Western Cape High Court is set to hear President Cyril Ramaphosa’s application to have the Section 89 independent panel report on the Phala Phala matter reviewed and set aside during proceedings scheduled for 2 to 4 September 2026.
Ramaphosa is challenging the findings of the panel, arguing that its process was flawed and that it failed to properly assess the legality and admissibility of the evidence presented before it.
The President is also contesting the panel's conclusion that the allegations against him could potentially constitute grounds for impeachment.
The Section 89 panel, chaired by former Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo, was established in 2022 to conduct a preliminary assessment of allegations relating to the theft of foreign currency from Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala game farm in Limpopo.
In its report, the panel found that there was sufficient information to suggest that the President may have a case to answer regarding potential violations of the Constitution and other laws, paving the way for Parliament to consider further action.
Ramaphosa has consistently denied wrongdoing and has maintained that the panel's findings were reached through a process that was procedurally and legally defective.
The legal challenge comes as Parliament prepares to establish an impeachment committee following a Constitutional Court ruling directing lawmakers to properly consider the panel's findings in accordance with constitutional requirements.
The outcome of the High Court proceedings is expected to have significant implications for the ongoing Phala Phala matter and any future parliamentary processes linked to the allegations.
The case remains one of the most closely watched legal and political developments involving the President since the controversy first emerged.