EFF statement on Jabu Mabuza, Eskom and Daily Maverick
19 October 2019
The EFF calls on the immediate removal of the incompetent, underqualified and admittedly clueless Jabu Mabuza as head of Eskom. During the Eskom Press Conference held yesterday, Mabuza himself admitted to not being qualified to preside over Eskom as caretaker CEO. Why then has the ANC government imposed him on so crucial a state utility upon which well over 90% of the country depends for electricity.
We also condemn the embedded nature of the relationship between the Mabuza ran Eskom and Daily Maverick. In his responses to why the Eskom Press Conference was held at the Airport in ACSA's offices, Mabuza told the country and the press that it was because Daily Maverick prefers the Press Conference to be held on a Thursday. This is as opposed to Friday which would have been more convenient for him and the team.
Why is Daily Maverick controlling the press schedule of Eskom? Why are they telling Mabuza on which day to brief the media and why is it their preference that takes priority?
We all just have to imagine what would the reaction be if Brian Molefe had said ANN7 prefers him to hold a Press Conference on a Monday. Meaning, would it be acceptable for Brain Molefe's Press Conference schedule to be controlled and dictated to my ANN7?
This statement by Mabuza is proof of the embeddedness of Daily Maverick in the Eskom communications. Daily Maverick, which is essentially a Pravin Gordhan news site is effectively occupying the front seat at Eskom communications. Perhaps even part of its propaganda machinery. This must be condemned and exposed for what it is: embedded journalism.
The EFF will write a parliamentary letter to Jabu Mabuza to explain this relationship in detail.
The problems of Eskom will never be resolved by an incompetent, clueless and admittedly unqualified executive like Jabu Mabuza. Surely South Africa is not in any lack of talent such that we have to be stuck with the Mabuza's of this world simply because they are loyal and report to Pravin Gordhan.
Issued by Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, National Spokesperson, EFF, 19 October 2019
