Former President Jacob Zuma has issued a legal ultimatum to President Cyril Ramaphosa, demanding his resignation by Friday, 8 August, or face potential legal action.
The demand comes amid a deepening political standoff within the highest ranks of government, centered around allegations of constitutional violations and executive overreach.
Failed to act decisively
Zuma’s legal team delivered a letter to the presidency on Monday, accusing Ramaphosa of breaching the Constitution by failing to act decisively against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who faces corruption allegations and accusations of political interference by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
Rather than dismiss Mchunu, Ramaphosa opted for suspension – an action Zuma argues amounts to dereliction of constitutional duty.
Legal analyst Benedict Phiri weighed in on the matter, stating: “The President may have breached his oath of office. This targets how he handled a cabinet member’s potential conflict of interest.”
Legal setbacks
The development follows a string of recent legal setbacks for Zuma and his affiliated uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party.
Last week, the Constitutional Court dismissed the MK party’s attempt to seek direct intervention in the matter, and a separate application by Zuma challenging Ramaphosa’s executive authority was also rejected.
This latest move marks a significant escalation in Zuma’s ongoing campaign against Ramaphosa’s leadership.
While the Presidency has yet to officially respond, the Friday deadline looms, placing pressure on Ramaphosa to act swiftly or risk further legal and political fallout.
Observers say the situation could soon head to the courts, potentially triggering a constitutional crisis.
Any chance Cyril Ramaphosa ever resigns – let alone by Friday?
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