The high-profile trial involving the theft at President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala farm commenced today at the Modimolle Regional Court in Limpopo. The case, which has drawn national attention, centers on a 2020 break-in where millions in foreign currency were stolen from the president’s property.

During pre-trial proceedings, the prosecution revealed that it has lined up 23 witnesses to testify against the three accused. The alleged mastermind, Immanuela David, faces charges of money laundering, housebreaking, theft, and conspiracy to commit theft. David was denied bail and remains in custody.

His co-accused, siblings Floriana and Ndilinasho Joseph, were granted bail. Floriana Joseph, who worked as a domestic worker at Ramaphosa’s farm at the time of the theft, is accused of tipping off David about the foreign currency hidden in a sofa. The siblings each face charges of housebreaking, theft, and conspiracy to commit theft.

The Josephs’ legal representative has indicated that they intend to plead not guilty and will testify in their own defense. Their legal team also plans to call three additional witnesses to support their case. All three accused are South African nationals of Namibian descent.

While the trial proceeds, separate investigations into whether Ramaphosa attempted to cover up the theft have largely cleared him of wrongdoing. The Public Protector and the South African Reserve Bank found no evidence of misconduct or violations of foreign exchange regulations. However, an independent parliamentary panel previously suggested that the president may have committed misconduct, though no further action was taken.

The court has allocated three weeks for the trial, which is expected to delve into the details of the theft and the alleged involvement of the accused. The case continues to spark debate over security and accountability at the highest levels of government.