South Africa is on high alert after intelligence reports revealed a possible covert plot to remove President Cyril Ramaphosa from power. The claims, first raised by Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, appear to be supported by ongoing turmoil within the police and military leadership.
The alleged scheme reportedly began with a series of high-profile arrests in the police force. Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo was the first to be detained, accused of illegally appointing an unqualified candidate to a key position. Investigators then prepared a six-week-old warrant for National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola, who allegedly bypassed proper procedures to secure Khumalo’s promotion in crime intelligence.
A confidential police dossier suggests the next target was General Rudzani Maphwanya, head of the South African National Defence Force. The final phase of the plot allegedly aimed to exploit the 2020 scandal in which millions in U.S. dollars were stolen from Ramaphosa’s Limpopo farm, using it as justification to oust him.
Ntshavheni confirmed the government is monitoring the situation, assuring citizens that security forces remain vigilant. “Some people are plotting bad things, but we are prepared, and South Africa is protected,” she said during a briefing on the National Security Strategy. She urged calm but cautioned the public to stay alert.
As tensions rise, analysts warn that the arrests and alleged coup plan point to deep instability within state security structures. The coming weeks may prove critical for Ramaphosa’s administration and South Africa’s political future.