15/10/2025
*President Cyril Ramaphosa Addresses Allegations of Ties to Hangwani Maumela*
President Cyril Ramaphosa has responded to recent allegations surrounding his relationship with Hangwani Maumela, a businessman implicated in the R2 billion Tembisa Hospital scandal. According to Ramaphosa, he has encountered Maumela on two occasions, but denies having any dealings with him.
*The Encounters*
Ramaphosa explained that he met Maumela in 2024 while walking with his daughter on a street where Maumela was standing outside his home. Maumela introduced himself, mentioning his mother, Mboneni Maumela, who had a past relationship with Ramaphosa's brother-in-law. Ramaphosa also acknowledged being outside Maumela's mansion in 2023, where he took photos and videos with media personality Tbo Touch and Bishop Noel Jones.
*Ramaphosa's Response*
The Presidency has maintained that the video showing Ramaphosa outside Maumela's house was coincidental, with spokesperson Vincent Magwenya stating that Ramaphosa was on a walk with his former advisor, Jomo Sibiya, when they stopped to take pictures with Tbo Touch. Ramaphosa emphasized that he has no personal relationship with Maumela and has instructed his family members to avoid any business dealings with the government.
*Allegations and Investigation*
Maumela is alleged to have led a syndicate that siphoned off R820 million from Tembisa Hospital through fraudulent tenders and inflated prices. The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has raided Maumela's luxury mansion in Sandhurst, Johannesburg, and seized assets worth R133.5 million, with a total of R900 million worth of assets targeted.
*Maumela's Response to Allegations: A Web of Silence and Secrecy*
Hangwani Maumela, the businessman at the center of the R2 billion Tembisa Hospital scandal, has maintained a low profile since the allegations surfaced. After the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) raided his luxury mansion in Sandhurst, Maumela was notably absent, sparking speculation about his whereabouts and potential next steps.
*Secrecy Surrounding Maumela's Movements*
The entrance to Maumela's home was heavily guarded by security personnel, who refused to allow anyone to approach the property or take pictures. An official confirmed that Maumela had not been seen at the residence since the SIU raid.
*Allegations of Corruption and Money Laundering*
Maumela faces allegations of leading a syndicate that siphoned off R820 million from Tembisa Hospital through fraudulent tenders, inflated prices, and non-existent deliveries. The SIU has seized assets worth R133.5 million, including three Lamborghinis, designer furniture, and expensive artwork, with a total of R900 million worth of assets targeted.
*Potential Consequences*
If found guilty, Maumela could face severe penalties, including imprisonment and asset forfeiture. The scandal has sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for accountability and transparency in the investigation.²
*Investigation Continues*
The SIU's investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to uncover the full extent of the corruption and identify any potential accomplices. As the case unfolds, Maumela's silence and absence are likely to fuel speculation and scrutiny.