South african president cleared of graft watchdog accusations

You're referring to the recent news about South African President Cyril Ramaphosa being cleared of graft watchdog accusations!

For those who may not be aware, the Public Protector of South Africa, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, had accused President Ramaphosa of violating the country's constitution by failing to disclose a donation from a wealthy businessman to his campaign to become the leader of the African National Congress (ANC) in 2017.

The Public Protector's report, which was released in February 2020, recommended that President Ramaphosa take disciplinary action against himself and that he pay back the donation, which was reportedly around R500,000 (approximately $33,000 USD).

However, President Ramaphosa rejected the report and its findings, calling them "unfair" and "unjust". He also launched a court challenge against the report, arguing that it was flawed and that the Public Protector had overstepped her powers.

In a major victory for President Ramaphosa, the High Court in Pretoria ruled in his favor on February 24, 2022, dismissing the Public Protector's report and clearing him of any wrongdoing. The court found that the Public Protector had failed to follow proper procedures and that her report was "irrational" and "unlawful".

The ruling has significant implications for South African politics, as it undermines the Public Protector's authority and raises questions about the independence of the office. It also means that President Ramaphosa will not have to take disciplinary action against himself or pay back the donation.

What are your thoughts on this development? Do you think the ruling is a blow to accountability and transparency in South African politics?