The President needs to discipline Minister Mosebenzi Zwane

5 September 2016

The Congress of South African Trade Unions is calling on the President of the Republic , Jacob Zuma to discipline the Minister of Mineral Resources Mosebenzi Zwane following his decision to publicly  present his personal views on the Oakbay Investment vs Banks matter as a Cabinet decision. The minister misrepresented the Cabinet when he said that it took a decision to ask the president to consider establishing a Judicial Enquiry in terms of section 84(2)(f) of the Constitution; with regard to matter between the company and the banks.

This supreme political arrogance and self exaltation by the minster has not only undermined the cabinet ,but raises question on who calls the shots and whether the centre is still holding in government. The president needs to act swiftly against the minister and send a clear message that our government is not in disarray, but it’s still intact.

This also plays into the hands of those companies, who have been on an investment strike because it gives them reasons to justify their unwillingness to invest in our economy. This reckless decision by the minister also gives these companies the social licence to openly interfere in political affairs with impunity. The president needs to act and act fast because nature does not allow a vacuum.

Issued by Sizwe Pamla, National Spokesperson, COSATU, 5 September 2016