Ramaphosa's Stance on the Classified Lady R Report - Security and Legal Interests Protected

In a recent Q&A at South Africa's National Council of Provinces, President Ramaphosa has reiterated his stance on keeping the detailed findings of the Lady R investigation confidential. Explaining the sensitivity of the information contained within the report, he insisted that disclosure might compromise the safety and operations of our security forces.

The independent panel led by the retired Judge Phineas Mojapelo, Advocate Leah Gcabashe SC, and Enver Surty concluded their investigation into the docking of the vessel Lady R. The investigation followed allegations by the US embassy in May that South Africa was facilitating armament supply to Russia. The panel conducted a thorough assessment of the ship's arrival, stay, loading or off-loading, and departure, aligning it with constitutional, legal or other obligations.

Ramaphosa wholeheartedly backed the panel's conclusions, asserting their rationality and transparency. The panel report concluded no clandestine party involvement or illegal transactions, and no evidence found contradicts these findings.

The President, on multiple queries, explained his refusal to publicize specific report details by referencing section 28 of the National Conventional Arms Control Act of 2002. The Act permits selective information omission concerning controlled items' technical specifications to safeguard military and commercial secrets.

The President stressed the critical role the National Conventional Arms Control plays in upholding international obligations on the transfer and trade of controlled items. He envisages a continued commitment from them in alignment with their founding legislation and relevant United Nations conventions.

Shielding information related to the work of this board is paramount to its mandate and country's security, said the President, reassuring the nation's continued adherence to law and its obligation to national security. Responding to youth unemployment questions, President Ramaphosa alluded to the Presidential Youth Employment intervention. It’s a presidentially coordinated initiative that leverages the strengths of over 50 partners to create pathways for South Africa's youth.