'South Africa cannot afford selective morality, political double standards, or the weakening of democratic oversight." So says a faith-based organisation calling on Parliament to act with integrity and transparency as it deals with the Phala Phala scandal following the Constitutional Court's ruling on the matter last week.
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The South African Community of Faith-Based Fraternals & Federations (SACOFF) has called on Parliament to conduct all its processes going forward with integrity, transparency, fairness, and respect for constitutional order.
The Pretoria-based organisation representing over 25,000 churches nationwide also urged all South Africans to allow due process to unfold responsibly and peacefully.
On Monday SACOFF joined a long list of political parties as well as civic and other organisations that have come out to express their views following last week’s pivotal Constitutional Court ruling declaring Parliament’s rejection of a report calling for the impeachment of President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2022 in connection with the Phala Phala scandal invalid and unconstitutional.
In a statement from the office of its president, Pastor Bert Pretorius, SACOFF said South Africa’s constitutional democracy depended on institutions functioning independently, responsibly, and within the framework of the law.
“As a faith-based organisation committed to justice, reconciliation, and social stability, SACOFF believes that moments such as these require calm leadership, national maturity, and careful adherence to lawful process rather than emotional reaction or political opportunism,” SACOFF said.
It added that the court’s ruling should not be “misunderstood” as a declaration of criminal guilt against any individual and that the “presumption of innocence remains a cornerstone of justice and must apply equally to every citizen, including the President of the Republic”.
“At the same time, SACOFF believes public office carries a profound responsibility before both God and society. Where serious concerns or credible evidence arise, democratic institutions have a duty to respond lawfully, transparently, and responsibly. Accountability mechanisms exist to protect the integrity of governance and to strengthen public trust in national leadership”
“SACOFF further notes that the effectiveness of constitutional democracy depends on a meaningful distinction between the legislative and executive arms of government. Parliament’s oversight responsibility is critical to the health of the Republic and must be exercised independently, courageously, and in faithful service to the Constitution of South Africa above partisan interests.
Bert Pretorius, President of the South African Community of Faith-based Fraternals and Federations (SACOFF), is calling for Parliament to conducts its processes with integrity and transparency following a pivotal Constitutional Court ruling on President Ramaphosa's impeachment.
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“Recent history has shown the dangers of ineffective parliamentary oversight in matters of national importance. This is why ongoing discussions around electoral reform and strengthening institutional independence remain critical for the future health of South Africa’s democracy. Members of Parliament carry a solemn obligation not merely to political organisations, but first and foremost to the Constitution and the people of South Africa. Oversight loses credibility where political loyalty overshadows constitutional responsibility,” SACOFF said.
The organisation called on Parliament to conduct all its processes with integrity, transparency, fairness, and respect for constitutional order.
Quoting a biblical passage stating that “every work”, including “every secret thing”, will ultimately be brought into judgment, the organisation said: “South Africa cannot afford selective morality, political double standards, or the weakening of democratic oversight. Neither blind defence nor reckless condemnation serves the nation well. What is required is principled consistency, honest leadership, and unwavering commitment to truth and justice.”
Meanwhile, the Economic Freedom Fighters accused Ramaphosa of attempting to delay accountability, following reports that he was considering taking the Section 89 report on review.
The party said it had taken note of reports that Ramaphosa was considering a judicial review of the report produced by an independent investigative panel led by former Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo.
Ramaphosa earlier said he respected the Constitutional Court’s judgment, reaffirming that no person is above the law and that allegations must be subjected to due process without fear, favour or prejudice.
“The Presidency has noted the judgment of the Constitutional Court in the case brought by the Economic Freedom Fighters challenging the National Assembly’s decision with respect to Section 89 proceedings against the President.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa respects the Constitutional Court’s judgment and reaffirms his commitment to the Constitution, the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law,” Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said.