daniel chigunwe
JOHANNESBURG. – President Cyril Ramaphosa said the three-member panel he assigned to probe the veracity of allegations which implied that South Africa sent weapons to Russia found no evidence to support the “damaging” claims.
The allegations made by the United States Ambassador to South Africa in May prompted Ramaphosa to establish the panel of inquiry chaired by former Supreme Court Judge Phineas Mojapelo, featuring Advocate Leah Gcabashe SC, and former deputy minister of basic education Enver Surty.
In a national address to the nation on Sunday night, Ramaphosa said the allegations had “the most damage” to South Africa’s economy and standing.
“In recent months, several quarters have used these allegations to call into question South Africa’s commitment to its position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The allegations levelled against our country had the most damaging effect on our currency, our economy and our standing in the world. In fact, it tarnished our image as a country,” said Ramaphosa.
Last month, Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the South African government is following established diplomatic channels in seeking recourse after the major diplomatic storm sparked by Brigety’s claims. – IOLNews
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