Makhura to Gordhan: ‘We believe in your ethical leadership’

11 October 2016

Johannesburg - Gauteng Premier David Makhura has publicly displayed support for Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan, who faces being charged by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

Makhura and Gordhan were both attending an Open Tender Seminar in Midrand, Johannesburg on Tuesday morning.

While the event was happening, NPA head Shaun Abrahams read a statement on the so-called rogue unit at the South African Revenue Service (Sars).

Abrahams said Gordhan has been ordered to appear before court on a charge of fraud over the Sars spy unit.

As these events were unfolding, Makhura asked the audience to stand up and applaud Gordhan for still choosing to come to the seminar, even after receiving news about his summons.

“We believe in your ethical leadership. We believe in your ability to face this moment as you work hard and do your best to steer the economy collectively, on the right path,” said Makhura.

“We trust as you go through this you will feel our weight, and not just feel the burden of the responsibility of being minister of finance.

“The truth will come out. The truth is too strong to be kept secret,” Makhura added.

The NPA’s announcement on Tuesday has rattled the rand, which sank over 3% to the US dollar.

The NPA’s announcement further comes after Gordhan was instructed to report to the Hawks in August regarding investigations into the Sars rogue unit.

This article first appeared on Fin24, see here.