Former Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane, through her foundation, has formally requested that United States law enforcement authorities, including the FBI and the Department of Justice, investigate President Cyril Ramaphosa in connection with the Phala Phala farm scandal.

The request focuses on the origin, movement, and alleged concealment of US dollar cash reportedly linked to transactions at the President’s Limpopo farm.This move follows a similar approach previously taken by the Democratic Alliance in 2022, which also sought international scrutiny over the matter.

The Phala Phala controversy first emerged after former intelligence boss Arthur Fraser laid criminal charges against Ramaphosa in 2022, alleging offences including money laundering, kidnapping, and defeating the ends of justice after the theft of foreign currency from the farm.

Estimates of the cash involved have been disputed, with reports alleging figures of up to $4 million, while President Ramaphosa has maintained that approximately $580,000 was stolen and that the money originated from legitimate buffalo and game sales.

Mkhwebane’s foundation claims it has received whistleblower information alleging bulk cash smuggling, money laundering, and possible cross-border currency violations.It argues that US authorities may have jurisdiction due to the involvement of US dollar notes and potential breaches of American financial laws.The request further calls for possible civil and criminal forfeiture of any proceeds deemed to be linked to unlawful activity.

The foundation also urges cooperation between US agencies and South African institutions such as SARS, the South African Reserve Bank, the Hawks, and the National Prosecuting Authority to obtain relevant records.

Legal commentary referenced in the report suggests that US jurisdiction can be triggered when US currency is involved in criminal activity, though prosecution typically depends on whether US interests are affected.The development reignites political debate around the Phala Phala matter and its implications for governance and public trust.