An independent panel appointed by the speaker of parliament found Mr Ramaphosa may have committed serious breaches of the constitution, violated an anti-corruption law, and acted in a way inconsistent with his office.

The sitting was postponed so that Mr Ramaphosa can study the contents of the report.

It’s a hefty and concerning read – one whose allegations the panel of investigators, described as a serious matter.

It will be presented to parliament next week. If they decide to constitute further investigations through an impeachment committee – and that committee finds him guilty – then Mr Ramaphosa could face impeachment.

Ultimately it will come down to a vote – the motion to impeach needs a two-thirds majority to pass.

While Mr Ramaphosa’s governing African National Congress has the numbers to prevent that from happening – the party is also hugely divided, and those against him may see this as an opportunity to vote with opposition parties to remove him.

The president - whose image was built on fighting corruption and upholding the rule of law – has denied any wrongdoing.