Ramaphosa delays parliament appearance over ‘Farmgate’ corruption scandal

South Africa's political crisis deepens after panel says president should face scrutiny over ability to stay in office

The government of Cyril Ramaphosa has plunged further into crisis, a day after an an independent panel appointed by parliament said there was evidence suggesting the South African president committed serious misconduct" after millions of dollars in cash were reportedly stolen from his private game ranch almost three years ago.

Ramaphosa was expected to answer questions in South Africa's parliament on Thursday but postponed his appearance, saying he needed time to consider the panel's timing. The deputy president, David Mabuza, cancelled a keynote address at a World Aids Day commemoration event, while key spokespeople failed to hold regular briefings.