Eskom: Solidarity welcomes Pamensky’s resignation after Molefe also did the honourable thing

16 November 2016 

Trade union Solidarity today welcomed the resignation of Eskom bigwig Mark Pamensky who is also a board member of the controversial Gupta family’s company Oakbay. Pamensky’s resignation followed barely a week after the resignation of Eskom’s former CEO Brian Molefe, who had also been incriminated in the State Capture Report.

According to Deon Reyneke, Deputy General Secretary of the Energy Industry in Solidarity, Pamensky’s resignation so soon after that of Molefe is highly suspicious. Both Pamensky and Molefe had been subpoenaed by the former Public Protector, Thuli Mandosela, to testify during her investigation into the Gupta’s influence. “Molofe did the honourable thing by resigning but the commission of inquiry should now run its course in its investigation into the Tegeta coal agreement. However, Pamensky’s resignation so soon after that of Molefe is highly suspicious, especially considering his ties with the Gupta family,” Reyneke said.

According to Reyneke, another Eskom bigwig should also tender his resignation just like Molefe and Pamensky. “Matshela Koko who, according to several sources, is currently a candidate to be Molefe’s successor, has been plunged into controversy repeatedly, including with regard to tender fraud and suspension pending an internal investigation,” Reyneke said.

“What the national energy provider now needs is leadership that will act strongly and ethically and in the best interests of South Africa,” Reyneke warned.

Issued by Deon Reyneke, Deputy General Secretary, Solidarity, 16 November 2016