The DA has called on Deputy President Paul Mashatile to intervene and address Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan’s alleged disregard for his office duties.
According to DA MP Ghaleb Cachalia, the move is in response to Gordhan’s repeated failure to appear before the public enterprises portfolio committee to respond to allegations made against him by his former director-general Kgathatso Tlhakudi.
Cachalia said the allegations include accusations that Gordhan interfered in the selection process and personally favoured the Takatso Consortium as the preferred bidder for the purchase of a 51% shareholding in SAA.
Despite the committee’s efforts to accommodate Gordhan on two previous occasions, he has reportedly declined to appear, citing health reasons for his absence.
The DA, however, has questioned the validity of these health claims and highlighted the significant disruption and frustration caused by the minister’s postponements.
“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.
The DA has since asked Gordhan to confirm a specific date for his appearance before the committee.
If health concerns continue to hinder his ability to fulfill his parliamentary obligations, the party suggests that he should consider stepping down from his position.
“We call upon minister Gordhan to honour his responsibilities and constitutional obligations by promptly confirming a specific date for his appearance before the committee,” Cachalia said.
“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.”
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