Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya has dismissed claims that alleged kingpin Hangwani Maumela is President Cyril Ramaphosa’s nephew.
This follows the circulation of pictures and videos on social media showing Ramaphosa outside Maumela’s home in Sandhurst.
Maumela has been implicated in the Tembisa Hospital looting scandal, with the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) seizing his assets, including a fleet of luxury vehicles and several properties.
MAUMELA LINK IS FAR FROM TRUE
Addressing the alleged ties to the president, Magwenya said the claims that Ramaphosa and Maumela shared a personal relationship were “far from the truth.”
He explained that when Ramaphosa was appointed deputy president, he met with his immediate family and instructed them to avoid or terminate any business dealings with the state. Magwenya added that Maumela was not part of that meeting.
“It is for this reason that we are going to consistently reject the narrative that seeks to link his existence, and whatever else he is involved in, to the president,” said Magwenya.
He further reminded the public that it was Ramaphosa who signed the proclamation that “lifted the veil” on corruption at Tembisa Hospital.
RAMAPHOSA DENIES KNOWING MAUMELA
The president also addressed the alleged link while responding to oral questions in the National Council of Provinces. Ramaphosa explained that 47 years ago, he married Maumela’s aunt, but they divorced 43 years ago.
“I had never encountered him. I had never seen him, and that is gospel truth,” Ramaphosa said.
The president added that while on a walk in his neighbourhood, he met radio personality Tbo Touch, and the two took photos in front of Maumela’s house. He claimed that Tbo Touch was mistaken for Maumela on social media.
“I walk past that house when I go on my walks,” he said.
Ramaphosa said he later met Maumela at his gate in 2024 and confronted him about using his name. Recalling the interaction, he said, “I said, ‘You are the Maumela who is putting my name into dispute.” Maumela then asked him to say hello to his mother, who was in school with the president. Ramaphosa said she was wearing a morning gown and could not let her leave the yard; therefore, he greeted her at the gate.
