South Africa: Rise Mzansi elects Gana as head of impeachment committee

South Africa's impeachment committee has a new chairperson. Bloomberg reports that Makashule Gana from the Rise Mzansi party was elected to this position. The vote came after intensive negotiations in which the parties of the Government of National Unity (GNU) united behind Gana's candidacy.

The election marks a victory for the ruling coalition, which supports Ramaphosa. Mail & Guardian reports that the Progressive Caucus – an alliance of the MK Party, EFF, African Transformation Movement and UAT – fielded Wonderhoy Mahlatse as a rival candidate. However, this opposition failed to prevail.

Highly sensitive investigation into the Phala Phala affair

Gana's role is politically highly sensitive. The impeachment committee must investigate whether Ramaphosa has given grounds for possible removal from office. Independent Online reports that the investigation could particularly concern the so-called Phala Phala affair – a scandal involving allegedly illegal cash holdings at Ramaphosa's private residence.

Gana's election shows how fragmented South African parliament has become. The GNU coalition of the ANC, DA and smaller parties had to pool their votes to stand against the opposition. Daily Maverick explains that such negotiations have become routine in the new political constellation since the ANC lost its majority in the 2024 elections.

Tactical advantage with formal independence

For Ramaphosa, Gana's election is a tactical advantage. A chairperson from the coalition is likely to pursue the proceedings less aggressively than an opposition candidate. However, the committee remains formally independent – Gana must adhere to parliamentary rules. AllAfrica reports that the committee's next steps will now show how seriously the investigation is being conducted.