By: Natasha Archary
Public Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan confirms that Andre de Ruyter spoke to him about Eskom corruption.
However, Gordhan claims that the former Eskom CEO failed to provide any evidence to support the corruption allegations.
Gordhan claims he encouraged de Ruyter to bring evidence forward and approach law enforcement.
In an interview with Newzroom Afrika, Gordhan said he didn’t take any action to de Ruyter’s claims because without proof it was just speculation and rumours.
“Yes he made allusions about certain individuals, but it was precisely that, allusions. And, as far as the law is concerned, or my understanding of the law is concerned, I can’t just arbitrarily point to someone and say that person is involved, either being corrupt or involved in corruption.”
Pravin Gordhan confirms Andre de Ruyter spoke to him about Eskom corruption
Gordhan was responding to questions raised after de Ruyter’s explosive eNCA interview where allegations of corruption within Eskom was shed.
The Minister who has been heavily criticised for his failure to take action against corruption, said he was not responsible for hiring and firing people.
“If Mr de Ruyter has the evidence, which I don’t know, he must take the initiative now and do that which is legally required of him. Which is to go to the law enforcement agency and give the evidence to them. Don’t expect me, on the basis of some understanding and possible suspicion around individuals, to now say who it is.
I don’t want to be charged with defamation or anything like that. I don’t have the evidence.”
Gordhan denied that he and de Ruyter had a falling out and said he visited the former CEO at his home after his alleged cyanide poisoning incident.
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