Minister Gordhan must stop cancelling and provide answers at Public Enterprises Committee

31 August 2023

The DA will today write to the Leader of Government Business, Deputy President Paul Mashatile, calling on him to address Minister Pravin Gordhan’s disregard for the Public Enterprises Portfolio Committee. This follows Minister Gordhan’s repeated no-show before the Committee to answer and rebut serious allegations made by his former Director General, Kgathatso Tlhakudi, who he fired.

The allegations by Tlhakudi includes that Gordhan interfered and handpicked the Takatso consortium as the preferred bidder to purchase the 51% shareholding in South African Airways.

On two occasions the Portfolio Committee had gone through significant cost and trouble to accommodate the minister and he has now refused again to show up, citing health reasons.

The repeated instances of postponement and non-appearance by Minister Gordhan are causing great disruption and frustration within the committee's proceedings. Last-minute cancellations without substantial medical documentation raise significant doubts. The DA underscores that the seriousness of the allegations and the necessity for due process necessitate swift action.

We call upon Minister Gordhan to honour his responsibilities and constitutional obligations by promptly confirming a specific date for his appearance before the committee. Should health concerns continue to impede his ability to effectively fulfil his parliamentary obligations, the DA firmly holds the view that he should contemplate stepping down from his position.

The cornerstone of our democracy is built upon transparency, accountability, and the unhindered functioning of parliamentary oversight. The public rightfully demands answers, and it is the fundamental duty of all public servants to wholeheartedly participate in these procedures.

Issued by Ghaleb Cachalia, DA Shadow Minister of Public Enterprises, 31 August 2023