South Africa’s President Ramaphosa Refuses Resignation Amid Cash‑In‑Sofa Scandal
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa publicly rejected calls to step down on 11 May 2026, despite mounting pressure over a scandal involving foreign‑currency cash hidden in a sofa on his private farm, according to reports from the South China Morning Post and Deutsche Welle.
The controversy erupted in March 2026 when investigators uncovered bundles of U.S. dollars, euros and rand concealed in a sofa at Ramaphosa’s Lubombo farm. The discovery prompted a criminal investigation and the formation of an impeachment committee by the African National Congress (ANC). Earlier in the week, a constitutional court revived impeachment proceedings that had previously been stalled.
Ramaphosa addressed the nation on television, acknowledging the court’s decision while asserting his innocence. “I respect the rule of law and will defend myself vigorously,” he said. South China Morning Post noted that the president also pledged to cooperate fully with the ongoing inquiry. Deutsche Welle added that Ramaphosa’s office confirmed he would not resign and would “continue to lead the country through these challenging times.” Meanwhile, Reuters reported that opposition parties, including the Democratic Alliance, called for an immediate resignation, accusing the president of “undermining public trust.”
Political analysts warn that the scandal could destabilize the ruling ANC ahead of the 2026 national elections. Professor Thandiwe Mkhize of the University of Cape Town observes that “the cash‑in‑sofa episode deepens existing concerns about corruption and may erode the party’s majority if voters perceive a lack of accountability.” Anti‑corruption NGOs, such as Corruption Watch, have urged the parliament to expedite the impeachment process.
The impeachment committee is scheduled to convene a full hearing on 3 July 2026, where evidence will be presented and a final recommendation made to the National Assembly. Observers will watch for any shifts in the ANC’s internal dynamics, potential coalition negotiations, and the impact on South Africa’s economic outlook amid ongoing electricity shortages and fiscal deficits.