South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will not face charges over a hidden cash scandal that emerged two years ago, prosecutors announced. The investigation was launched following claims made by former national security chief Arthur Fraser in June 2022. Fraser accused Ramaphosa of concealing $580,000 in a couch at his ranch to dodge foreign currency laws, then covering up a theft of the money by ordering his security to track and bribe the thieves.
The incident, sometimes called "farmgate," had occurred in 2020 but only came to light with Fraser's allegations, threatening Ramaphosa's political standing amid a key leadership vote. Despite opposition efforts to impeach him, Ramaphosa retained his position after being cleared by the reserve bank and an independent watchdog. The 71-year-old leader has consistently denied any wrongdoing, stating the funds were from the sale of buffaloes at his game farm.
In a recent statement, prosecutors stated that after a "comprehensive investigation process," no charges would be filed against Ramaphosa or his security. The scandal, linked to political maneuvering, highlights the enduring rivalry between Ramaphosa and former President Jacob Zuma, allies turned adversaries. Police did arrest three individuals, including a worker at Ramaphosa's farm, who were charged with the theft. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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